Script Hook Framework

Script Hook Framework

Write a script for: $ARGUMENTS

Hook: Target-Transformation-Stakes (George Blackman)

The first 30 seconds determine everything. Structure:

Target (3 sentences, raising stakes and clarity)

• Who is this for?
• Why should they care RIGHT NOW?
• What's the specific context that makes this urgent?

Transformation (1 sentence)

• What specific, tangible outcome will the viewer get?
• Must be measurable or visual — not vague ("you'll understand X" is weak; "you'll save $500/month" is strong)

Stakes (1 sentence)

Choose ONE:

• Bold statement that provokes
• Thought-provoking question
• Controversial opinion
• Unique insight nobody else is sharing

First 30 Seconds Rules

• Deliver on the title's promise IMMEDIATELY — no preamble
• Cut ALL filler that delays payoff
• Leading with the key insight improves retention by 15-20 percentage points
• Pattern interrupt at 25-35 seconds (camera angle change, music drop, graphic)
• MrBeast: show the viewer what they gain or lose in first 5 seconds, or retention collapses
• Establish purpose using "By the end of this video, you'll know..."

0-30 Second Beast Hook Timing

Use this when the video is browse/suggested-driven and needs immediate visual momentum:

Do not open with "today we're going to talk about..." if the viewer can see the value instead.

Body: Setup-Tension-Payoff Structure

Every 60-90 seconds, complete one cycle:

Setup (10-15 seconds)

Alert viewers to what's coming in the next segment. Create anticipation.

Tension (40-60 seconds)

Build toward the promise. Add complexity, stakes, obstacles, or surprising details.

Payoff (10-15 seconds)

Deliver the information satisfyingly. This is a dopamine hit — the viewer feels rewarded.

Then immediately start the next Setup. The payoff of one section transitions into the setup of the next.

Ali Abdaal's HIVE Framework (Structure)

Hook: First 10-30 seconds. Spend 10-20 minutes thinking about ONLY the first 10 seconds.

• Best hooks: enticing b-roll, question, transformation, provocative fact, quick tip

Intro: Categorize the video:

• Discoverable (hooks new viewers via search/browse)
• Community (deepens existing subscriber relationships)
• Sales (drives a specific action)

Value: Core content — the main message. Use Setup-Tension-Payoff cycles throughout.

End Screen: Last 10 seconds = pitch to another video on a correlating topic. Always end with a specific CTA.

Film Booth's 4-Beat Structure

1. Cold Open: Give context + convince viewer to stay with an enticing moment
2. Intro: Explain the concept creatively, build stakes, explain why it's hard
3. Concept in Action: Compelling narrative including false hope moments
4. Golden Moment: Core idea realized and presented

Scripting Rules

Words to AVOID (George Blackman)

imagine, streamline, realm, game-changer, unlock, discover, skyrocket, abyss, vast, revolutionize

Also avoid: metaphors, antithesis phrases, purple prose, AI-speak

Structure Rules

• Never state conclusions upfront — build tension first
• Never include self-defeating statements in hooks ("this is complicated" = viewer leaves)
• Focus on emotional connection when transitioning between segments
• Mini-payoffs every 60-90 seconds (dopamine throughout, not just at end)
• Escalating stakes — tension builds continuously (MrBeast)
• Every 3-5 minutes needs a re-engagement moment: new constraint, twist, reveal, format break, escalation, or unexpected failure.

Sound Design Notes

• Voice dominates; music sits 5-25dB quieter
• Change music when story shifts (new chapter = new cue)
• Brief silence before major reveals
• Calm: 60-80 BPM. Energy: 100-120 BPM.

Output Format

## Script: "[Video Title]"
**Type**: Discoverable / Community / Sales
**Target Length**: [X] minutes
**Retention Strategy**: [which cutting pattern — Progressive Rhythm / Contrast / Narrative Loop / Hybrid Tempo / Anchor]

### HOOK (0:00-0:30)
**Target**: [3 sentences]
**Transformation**: [1 sentence]
**Stakes**: [1 sentence]
**Pattern Interrupt at 0:25**: [what changes]

### SEGMENT 1: [Topic] (0:30-2:00)
**Setup** (0:30-0:45): [what you're promising]
**Tension** (0:45-1:45): [the build]
**Payoff** (1:45-2:00): [the reward]

### SEGMENT 2: [Topic] (2:00-3:30)
[same structure]

[Continue for each segment...]

### END SCREEN (last 10 seconds)
**CTA**: [specific next video to watch]
**Line**: "[exact words to say]"

### Production Notes
- B-roll needed: [list]
- Graphics/text overlays: [list]
- Music cues: [when to change tracks]
- Pattern interrupts: [timestamp + what changes]