Preparation (Before You Upload)
Doing a little prep work will make your video much more successful.
Create the Video File: Make sure your video is edited and saved in a common format like MP4 or MOV. YouTube recommends using the MP4 container with H.264 codec for the best balance of quality and file size.
Create a Compelling Thumbnail: This is the first thing people see. Create a custom, eye-catching image (1280x720 pixels) that represents your video. You can use tools like Canva, Photoshop, or even YouTube's own thumbnail creator.
Write a Title and Description: Craft a clear, engaging title. Write a detailed description that includes keywords people might use to find your video. You can also add links to your social media or other relevant videos here.
Add Tags (Optional but helpful): Think of a few keywords that describe your video's topic. Tags help YouTube understand and recommend your content.
On a Computer (Desktop/Laptop)
Sign In: Go to
YouTube Click "Create": In the top-right corner of the page, click the "Create" button (it looks like a camera icon with a plus sign + inside).
Select "Upload video": A menu will drop down; choose "Upload video". This will take you to the YouTube Studio upload page.
Upload Your File:
Click the large "SELECT FILES" button, and choose the video file from your computer.
Alternatively, you can drag and drop the video file directly into the upload box.
Enter Video Details (as it uploads):
Title: Create a catchy and descriptive title (up to 100 characters).
Description: Write a detailed description, including relevant keywords, links, and any credits.
Thumbnail: Choose one of the auto-generated options or click "Upload thumbnail" to add your own custom image.
Audience: Select whether the video is "Yes, it's made for kids" or "No, it's not made for kids" (required by law).
Optional: Add your video to a Playlist, enter Tags, and use other options like End Screens and Cards.
Checks: YouTube will run checks for copyright issues and ad suitability (if you are monetizing). Click "NEXT".
Visibility: Choose your privacy setting:
Private: Only you and people you choose can watch it.
Unlisted: Anyone with the video link can watch it, but it won't show in search results or on your channel page.
Public: Everyone can watch it.
Schedule: Choose a future date and time for the video to go Public.
Publish/Save: Click "PUBLISH" (if Public/Unlisted) or "SAVE" (if Private) to finish.
On a Mobile Device (YouTube App)
Open the App & Sign In: Open the YouTube app on your phone or tablet and sign in.
Tap "Create": At the bottom center of the screen, tap the "Create" icon (it looks like a plus sign +).
Select "Upload a video": This will open your device's photo/video gallery.
Choose Your Video: Tap the video you want to upload and then tap "NEXT" (usually in the top right).
Add Details:
Title: Enter your video title.
Description: Write your description.
Visibility: Set the video to Public, Unlisted, or Private.
Audience: Select whether it is "made for kids" or not.
Optional: Add a Location or add it to a Playlist.
Upload: Tap "UPLOAD" (usually in the top right).
Your video will begin uploading, and you can edit more advanced settings (like custom thumbnails, End Screens, and tags) later using the YouTube Studio App on your mobile device or by logging into YouTube Studio on a computer.