How To Set Up A YouTube End Screen That Gets Clicks And Converts

A good end screen is crucial for keeping viewers engaged with your channel after they have finished watching one of your videos. Here are ways to help your end screen to not only get clicks, but to also encourage viewers to continue watching more of your content on your channel:

1. Audibly Call To Action

Why It Matters

While visual prompts (e.g. an arrow or a subheading saying "watch this") on an end screen are important, actually telling your audience what to do is just as important. When you're finishing up your video, explicitly guide them toward the next step.

For example, you could say, "If you enjoyed this video, be sure to click the video on the screen to learn even more!". This verbal mention emphasises the visual call to action, making it more likely that viewers will follow through with your CTA.

It also helps to be specific. Instead of a generic “watch more videos,” (since every YouTuber says that in their outro), try something like “Want to see how MrBeast almost went broke? Click the video on your screen now!” - this helps to differentiate your video from the rest and it better presents value to the viewer.

2. Limit Options To One Video

Why It Matters

When a viewer is presented with too many options (e.g. too many videos, subscribe button, infographic etc.), viewers can get overwhelmed and will most of the time end up choosing nothing at all. To maximize the chances of a click, offer only one video for them to watch next. This reduces decision fatigue and makes the choice clear.

Choose a video that logically follows what they just watched. For example, if your current video was about beginner photography tips, the end-screen video could be about advanced techniques or gear recommendations.

Use compelling calls-to-action to guide viewers. Phrases like "Watch this next to level up your skills" or "Don't miss this related tip" make the transition feel intentional and exciting. Pairing this with an enticing thumbnail and title for the suggested video further increases the likelihood of a click. Keep the messaging clear and focused, reinforcing why the next video is worth their time.

Remember to analyze your video analytics regularly. Check the performance of your end screens and monitor the click-through rate (CTR) for the videos you suggest. By understanding what keeps your audience engaged, you can refine your strategy and build a more effective video flow that leads to higher retention and growth for your channel.

3. Leave It On Screen Long Enough

Why It Matters

Ensure your end screen is up long enough (~20 seconds), giving viewers enough time to make a decision. If the end screen disappears too quickly, you’ll lose potential clicks as people won’t have enough time to engage with your options.

Use this time to reiterate your call-to-action verbally and visually, reinforcing the importance of clicking the next video. Additionally, consider placing your end screen elements in areas of the screen where they won’t be obstructed by YouTube’s default interface, such as subtitles or watermarks, ensuring your prompts are clear and easy to interact with.

To increase engagement:

• Finish your video's content before the end screen begins so those elements don't overlap your content.
• Use the last 10–15 seconds of your video for a smooth transition where you ask viewers to take action, so they're prepared when the end screen elements appear (spend this time to set up the CTA for the recommended video).

4. Link To A Relevant Video

Why It Matters

The video you link to should be related to the content your viewers just finished watching. Relevance increases the likelihood that viewers will stay engaged. If your viewers came across your channel because of your baking tips, don’t link them to a travel vlog - give them more of what they're already interested in and received value from.

Make sure the video you’re recommending answers a question, continues a story or builds on the value of the current one. For example, if your video is about "Top 5 Simple Dinner Recipes,", then your end screen could link to "Quick Dessert Ideas To Impress Guests."

Viewers have stuck to the end of your video due to the value presented in your video, so it is easier to present a CTA for a video with similar topics and value, making it easier for them to decide to watch more.

5. Specific Call-To-Action For The Next Video

Why It Matters

Instead of leaving viewers to interpret the end screen on their own, guide them directly with a specific call to action. It could be something as simple as, “Click the video to find out how MrBeast went broke on YouTube,”, which is much more engaging than a simple "Watch this next.".

By providing a compelling reason to watch the next video, you play to their curiosity and create a sense of urgency. Mention what’s at stake, what they’ll learn, how it will help them, or what entertaining moment awaits.

Also when you give a CTA, make sure it fits the tone of your channel - whether it’s casual, humorous, or informational, the CTA should match your style to feel natural and engaging and not feel forced.

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A strong end screen is one of the most effective tools to keep viewers engaged and encourage them to stay within your content. By using verbal and visual calls to action, limiting options to a single relevant video, and ensuring the end screen stays visible long enough, you create a clear and compelling path for viewers to follow. Linking to content that logically builds on the video they just watched further strengthens this and keeps their interest.

The key to success lies in presenting value and making the transition seamless. Whether you're offering a follow-up video to answer a question, build on a story, or continue providing value, your end screen should feel intentional and natural. Regularly reviewing your analytics to fine-tune these elements will help you optimise engagement, boost watch time, and grow your channel effectively. By crafting end screens that are interesting, you can turn casual viewers into loyal subscribers who keep coming back for more.