# Youtube Thumbnail Generation

> Generate YouTube thumbnails. Use when Codex needs thumbnail concepts, layouts, image prompts, text options, click testing, or final 16:9 thumbnail assets that match a video topic and title.

- Skill: `lynn2023hahaha/youtube-thumbnail-generation` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 2 files)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add lynn2023hahaha/youtube-thumbnail-generation`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/lynn2023hahaha/youtube-thumbnail-generation/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Productivity
- Author: Lynn2023hahaha (https://skillmd.com/u/lynn2023hahaha)
- Updated: 2026-09-22
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/lynn2023hahaha/youtube-thumbnail-generation

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# YouTube Thumbnail Generation

## Inputs

Use topic brief, title options, script payoff, target audience, visual style, and any brand constraints.

## Process

1. Identify the core clickable promise.
2. Generate 3-5 thumbnail concepts.
3. Choose one primary concept and one fallback.
4. Write short thumbnail text only if it adds information.
5. Create image prompts or generate the final thumbnail when tools are available.

## Output Format

Create `thumbnail-brief.md`:

```markdown
# Thumbnail Brief

## Core Promise

## Concepts
| Concept | Layout | Text | Visual Prompt | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|---|---|

## Selected Concept

## Final Prompt

## Checks
```

## Design Rules

- Use one clear focal point.
- Keep text to 0-5 words when possible.
- Make the thumbnail readable at small size.
- Match the title promise; do not imply something the video does not deliver.
- Avoid clutter, tiny labels, and generic shocked-face layouts unless the niche expects it.