How to start a YouTube channel as a beginner

Your first videos won't be your best, and that's the point. Channels grow by posting consistently about one topic and getting a little better each time. A phone and a quiet room are enough to start.

Start this week

Your first 3 steps

1
Pick one topic you could make 20 videos about
15 min · Done when: One topic and a list of 10 video ideas
A clear topic tells YouTube who to show your videos to, and tells viewers why they should subscribe.
2
Create the channel with a name and a one-line description
15 min · Done when: Your channel exists with a name and description
Don't overthink the name. You can change the banner and logo later.
3
Film a 60-second Short answering one question from your list
30 min · Done when: One Short is recorded
Short videos are the easiest way to practice being on camera and get your first views.

Pursivon reminds you each morning and builds the rest of your plan.

Your first 4 weeks

Week 1
Pick your topic, set up the channel and post your first Short.
Week 2
Post 2 more Shorts. Look at which one got the most views and why.
Week 3
Make your first longer video (5-8 minutes) on your best-performing idea.
Week 4
Set a schedule you can keep, like one video a week, and batch-film two at a time.

Mistakes that stop most people

Buying gear before posting anything. Good audio and light matter more than a camera.
Changing topics every video.
Judging success after five videos. Most channels take months to find their audience.

Common questions

What equipment do I need?

Your phone, natural light from a window and a quiet room. A cheap clip-on mic is the first upgrade worth buying.

How often should I post?

As often as you can keep up. One video a week for a year beats five a week for a month.

When can I make money?

YouTube's Partner Program has viewer and watch-time requirements that change over time, so check its current rules. Many creators also earn from sponsors or their own products.

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