10 How-To Videos That Really Work (And Why)

How-to videos are an especially compelling way to learn how to do something online because the video shows you exactly how to do it.

We found that of the 91.9% of internet users who enjoy watching videos, 31.3% want how-to videos, and 29.8% want educational videos.

In this post, we'll explain why how-to videos are so popular and include 10 examples to inspire your next video marketing campaign.

How-to Video Searches Are Popular

How-to Video Examples

Best How-to Videos

How-To Video Searches Are Popular

As mentioned, how-to videos are popular because they visually show users how to complete tasks. However, it's not just consumers who benefit from how-to videos.

How-to videos are an excellent way to establish your brand as an expert in its industry, and they can demonstrate the unique features of your product or service.

According to WyzOwl's 2023 Video Marketing Statistics Report, 96% of video marketers say video has increased users' understanding of their product or service.

Furthermore, 87% of video marketers say that video has increased traffic to their website, and 80% say video has directly increased sales.

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How-to Video Examples

Below are five great how-to videos, and you can apply these to your own videos.

1. How to Do Push-Ups

If you're anything like me and lack upper body strength, you've likely struggled to do a push-up. Fortunately, Hybrid Calisthnecis posts videos showing how viewers can work up to different exercises, including push-ups.

This how-to video breaks down the different ways to work up to a push-up and provides solutions to some of the issues viewers may face, such as wrist pain.

When creating a how-to video for your brand, be proactive and consider the different struggles consumers may encounter when learning to do something. Make sure your video provides solutions.

Another takeaway from this video is its title, "You CAN do pushups, my friend!" When naming your videos, you don't have to stick to the traditional "How to ___" format.

Be bold and think outside the box while still formatting your videos to be SEO-friendly.

2. How to Prep Your Skin for Non-Cakey Foundation Application

Remember, how-to videos are exceptional at providing information about your product or service.

For example, makeup brand Fenty Beauty posts videos showing viewers how their products can achieve different looks or solve common problems.

For example, cakey foundation application is a typical concern for many makeup users. The video below shows viewers how to prep their skin to avoid the problem with Fenty products.

Think of a problem your audience may often face. Create a how-to video showing your audience how products or services solve the issue.

3. How to Learn Python Fast with ChatGPT

This video by data scientist Sundas Khalid shows viewers how to learn coding language using ChatGPT.

The main takeaway from this video is how Sundas uses very plain, easy-to-follow language to describe something that may initially sound daunting and complicated.

She also uses emojis, stock images, and screen recordings of her using ChatGPT to help viewers further visualize the task.

When creating a how-to video, avoid using jargon or complex language — and use imagery to illustrate your point better. Using a free tool like HubSpot's Clip Creator, you can leverage AI to create an effective how-to video and a compelling script in just a few clicks. 

4. How to Grow on Instagram from 0

In this how-to video, content creator Jade Beason explains how to grow your Instagram channel from scratch, going from zero followers to 10,000.

This video is excellent for people early in their Instagram marketing or creator journey and provides comprehensive steps to reaching their goals.

In your how-to video, think of consumers new to your niche who have no idea where to start. Think about creating a how-to video for them and how you can break down the task into simple steps they can follow.

5. How to Increase Your Reels Views

Again, you don't have to be married to the "How to ____" title format. In fact, it can be helpful for your viewers to know they'll get the information they need in a few tips or steps. Take the video below as an example.

Content creator Modern Millie gives five tips on increasing your Reels' views.

Best How-to Videos

Below are some of the best how-to videos to think about in your marketing campaign.

6. How to Make Chocolate Ice Cream Bars

You Suck at Cooking is a channel that shows people how to cook different meals and snacks in a very unconventional way. Its videos feature absurd humor, random skits, funny musical breaks, and the creator's unique personality.

Your how-to videos don't always have to be clinical and boring. Don't be afraid to add personality and humor to make them stand out.

7. How to Finger Tap on Guitar

The video above features award-winning guitarist Yvette Young teaching viewers how to two-hand tap on the guitar. The video is for the musical instrument company Sweetwater.

The company often posts videos to its channel showing musicians of all levels how to perfect their craft.

This video is especially interesting because guitar enthusiasts often reference Yvette Young when trying to learn specific techniques — particularly her two-hand tapping technique, which is common in her style of music.

Consider an influential person in your niche whom your audience may be interested in emulating. Try posting a how-to video showing your audience how they can achieve that person's accomplishments, style, or look.

8. How to Draw Stitch from 'Lilo and Stitch'

Art for Kids Hub is a YouTube channel that posts new art tutorials for children every week. The channel's target audience is families and children. Rob Jensen and his children host its how-to videos to reach their target audience.

Consider having someone connected to your target audience to host your how-to videos. For example, if you're a sports equipment company, you might want your videos hosted by an athlete or coach.

9. How to Wake Up Earlier

Unless you're a morning person, you'll likely agree that waking up early can be unpleasant but necessary. This video taps into that relatable feeling of struggling to wake up early and create a consistent routine.

The video host, Maya Lee, shares her struggles with waking up and how she feels when she doesn't sleep enough. Her experience makes the tips and tricks she shares seem more genuine.

When creating a how-to video, try to be relatable to your audience and their struggles so you can build credibility in your content.

10. How to Learn the Full Splits

Speaking of relatability, the above video teaches viewers how to do a full split by documenting the journey of creator Henry Vo. The video shows how he went from being unable to do a split to doing it in 30 days.

Consider showing someone's journey of learning the task in your how-to video. Even better, include a specific time frame, like 30 days, to show viewers that they can achieve their goal with the proper amount of time.

How-to videos help build brand awareness, explain your products or services, and establish credibility with your audience.

Now that you have these examples of great how-to videos, you're ready to add the video format to your next marketing campaign.