Long-form rewards depth: chapters, examples, nuance, and retention curves measured in minutes. Shorts reward immediacy: one idea, one emotional turn, and a finish that loops or tees the next clip. ShakeTheSpear separates these so your outlines and scripts match platform physics.
Long-form planning
Start from retention: hook in the first 30 seconds, pattern break every few minutes, and a payoff that matches the title. Outline in acts—setup, tension, resolution—not only bullet lists.
Act 1: promise and stakes—why watch now?
Act 2: teaching, story, or argument—evidence and examples.
Act 3: synthesis, objection handling, clear CTA.
Plan B-roll or visual beats alongside narration where your pipeline supports it.
Mark timestamps early—they become chapters and short-form clips later.
Shorts planning
Assume silent-first viewers: text on screen, strong visual movement, and audio as enhancement. One claim or joke per short. If you need nuance, bridge to long-form.
Hook frame one: conflict, surprise, or bold claim.
Middle: deliver the promise fast—no throat-clearing.
End: punchline, CTA, or loop to part two—avoid soft fades that kill rewatches.
Repurposing without double work
When a long episode generates shorts, log timestamp ranges and the hook line for each clip in project notes. Editors should not rewatch forty minutes to find moments. Aim for distinct hooks per clip—same topic, different entry angle.
Quality bar
A short is not “a long script cut down.” Rewrite pacing and sentences for breath length. Read aloud at target duration—usually 15–45 seconds spoken.
If you are unsure which type to pick, ask: “Can I deliver the promise in under 60 seconds without lying?” If yes, try short first; if no, long-form.