Whiteboard explainer videos have become one of the most popular ways to communicate complex ideas in a simple, engaging manner. If you’ve ever watched a hand drawing out a concept on a whiteboard while a calm voice narrates the process, you’ve seen the magic in action. But why are these videos so effective, and why do businesses, educators, and content creators keep turning to them?
Here’s the thing: people love stories. They also love visuals. Combine the two, and you’ve got a powerful tool that captures attention, simplifies information, and improves retention. Whiteboard explainer videos do exactly that, often in just a few minutes.
Let’s walk through what makes them so impactful:
- They break down complex ideas into manageable pieces.
- The hand-drawn visuals create a sense of storytelling and movement.
- Viewers feel like they’re being taught rather than marketed to.
- The clean, minimal visuals reduce distractions and increase focus.
- The format suits everything from sales pitches to educational content.
These videos aren’t just for fun. Businesses use them to boost conversions. Teachers use them to help students understand tough concepts. Even startups use them in investor pitches to explain what they do in a way that sticks.
So whether you’re looking to explain your service, train your team, or teach a course, whiteboard explainer videos offer a low-cost, high-impact solution. Now let’s dig deeper into why they work, when to use them, and how to create a great one.
Types of Content That Work Best with Whiteboard Explainers
Not every message fits every format. Whiteboard explainer videos shine brightest when used in the right scenarios. If you’re wondering whether this style fits your content, here are the most common and effective uses:
- Educational Tutorials
Teachers, online educators, and tutors love whiteboard videos because they mimic the classroom experience. When someone explains a math problem or breaks down a science concept while sketching it out, students retain the information better. - Product or Service Introductions
If your product is new, complicated, or different from the norm, a whiteboard video can make it approachable. By visually explaining how it works, what it solves, and why it matters, you remove the intimidation factor for potential customers. - Business Pitches
Startups and small businesses often use these videos during presentations or on their websites. It gives investors or visitors a fast, clear sense of what the business does—without needing a live pitch every time. - Training and Onboarding
Whiteboard explainers are excellent for internal training. They make policies, processes, or software usage much easier to grasp, especially for visual learners. - Nonprofit Campaigns and Awareness
Explaining a social issue or cause often involves simplifying something emotional or complex. Whiteboard videos help keep the tone educational yet engaging without being overwhelming.
Here’s a quick table showing what kind of messages pair well with this video format:
| Content Type | Why It Works with Whiteboard Video |
| Educational Lessons | Visual breakdowns aid in comprehension and memory |
| Product Explainers | Simplifies technical details into an easy narrative |
| Business/Startup Pitches | Engaging, short, and ideal for digital platforms |
| Employee Training | Retains attention better than documents or lectures |
| Fundraising Campaigns | Story-driven visuals help stir emotion and drive action |
Choosing the right type of message for this format can be the difference between a forgettable clip and a video that people watch to the end and actually remember.
Benefits of Using Whiteboard Explainer Videos for Your Brand
The charm of whiteboard videos goes far beyond their simplicity. They offer a wide range of benefits, especially when it comes to marketing, education, and internal communication. If you’ve been on the fence about using them, consider how they can strengthen your brand or message.
- Boosts Viewer Retention
When people hear something, they retain about 10% of it after three days. When that message is paired with relevant visuals, retention can rise to 65%. That’s a major difference, especially in marketing and training. - Easy to Customize
You don’t need actors, expensive sets, or elaborate animations. Whiteboard videos can be tailored to match your brand’s tone, color scheme (if not using pure black and white), and message. - Cost-Effective
Traditional videos with actors, voiceovers, props, and locations can be expensive. A whiteboard explainer cuts down on nearly all of those costs. Most are done digitally now, too, which speeds up production. - Great for SEO and Engagement
Websites with videos tend to rank higher in search results. On social media, videos get more shares and comments than other types of content. People stay longer on pages that have videos, and engagement goes up. - Accessible to All Audiences
Because the visual style is so straightforward, whiteboard explainers work well across language barriers and literacy levels. They’re not intimidating, and they don’t feel pushy. - Strong Call-to-Action Results
Ending your video with a call to action (CTA) is powerful—especially when viewers feel informed and connected. Whether you want people to sign up, buy, donate, or learn more, this format builds trust first, then gently nudges them forward.
Let’s sum up some of the core benefits:
- Viewers understand and remember more
- Easy to produce without a huge budget
- Perfect for websites, emails, and social media
- Customizable for branding and tone
- Encourages action through clarity
Whether you’re aiming to simplify a business process or capture your audience’s attention in a crowded digital world, this format makes a strong case.
How to Create a Powerful Whiteboard Explainer Video
Making a whiteboard video may seem easy, but it takes planning and intention to do it well. Here are the key tips to help you create a video that not only looks good but delivers your message clearly and memorably.
Tip 1: Start with a Clear Script
The script is everything. It should explain your concept in a conversational tone—like you’re talking to a friend. Avoid industry jargon or long-winded explanations. Keep the pace steady and focused.
- Begin with the problem.
- Introduce the solution.
- Show how it works.
- Wrap up with a call to action.
Tip 2: Use Simple Visuals to Match the Script
The drawings should support the voiceover, not distract from it. Stick to one idea per scene. Use symbols, simple characters, or diagrams. Don’t overcrowd the screen.
Tip 3: Choose the Right Voiceover
A warm, friendly voice makes a huge difference. It doesn’t have to be super professional, but it should be clear, pleasant, and match your brand tone.
Tip 4: Add Movement with Purpose
Even though whiteboard videos are mostly about drawing, the timing of movement and transitions plays a big role. Make sure each visual element appears in sync with the audio explanation.
Tip 5: Keep It Short and Focused
Most successful whiteboard explainers are between 60 to 120 seconds. Attention spans are short—get to the point quickly and deliver your message with impact.
Tip 6: Use Tools or Hire Creators
You don’t need to be an animator to create one. There are plenty of tools like Doodly, VideoScribe, and Vyond. Or you can hire freelancers who specialize in this style if you want something custom.
Tip 7: Test and Refine
Before publishing, show it to a few people and ask if they understood the message. You may need to tighten the script, adjust visuals, or shorten the length.
When you get these basics right, your whiteboard video will do more than just explain—it’ll connect, persuade, and stick.
Frequently Asked Questions About Whiteboard Explainer Videos
What is a whiteboard explainer video exactly?
It’s a style of animated video where hand-drawn illustrations are created in real-time (or appear to be) on a white background, while a voiceover explains the concept or message.
Why are whiteboard explainer videos so popular?
They simplify complex ideas and hold attention longer than traditional video formats. People find the drawing process engaging and are more likely to finish watching the video.
Do I need artistic skills to make one?
Not at all. Most modern whiteboard videos are made using software with built-in image libraries and templates. You just need a solid script and a clear message.
How long should my whiteboard explainer be?
Ideally between 60–120 seconds. If your message needs more time, break it into smaller segments or chapters to keep it digestible.
Can I use color in a whiteboard video?
Yes, though traditionally they’re black and white to stay simple. Adding a touch of color can highlight key points or match your branding—but use it sparingly.
Are these videos good for marketing?
Absolutely. They can explain products, services, or processes in a way that feels approachable, which helps convert viewers into customers.
Is it worth hiring a professional?
If you want a polished result and don’t have time to learn the tools, hiring a professional can be a great investment. It ensures better quality, especially if it’s customer-facing content.
Where should I publish my whiteboard explainer video?
Start with your website, then share on social media platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Also consider embedding them in email newsletters or presentations.
Conclusion: Why Whiteboard Explainer Videos Deserve a Spot in Your Strategy
If you’re looking for a way to connect, teach, or convert without overwhelming your audience, whiteboard explainer videos might be exactly what you need. They turn ideas into easy-to-understand visuals. They invite viewers in instead of pushing a hard sell. And they’re accessible, budget-friendly, and surprisingly powerful.
Whether you’re a small business trying to explain your service, a teacher breaking down lessons, or a nonprofit sharing a story—this format helps you get the message across clearly and memorably.
Remember:
- Keep it simple
- Focus on clarity
- Use storytelling with visuals
In a world full of noise, people crave content that makes them feel smart and informed. A well-crafted whiteboard video does just that.
So if you haven’t tried this format yet, now’s the time to give it a shot. It might just be the tool that finally gets your message heard—and remembered.