YouTube is not a mystery. It is a system that rewards specific viewer signals.

When you know what those signals are, you stop guessing and start creating content that travels further.

YouTube recently shared its Shorts Viral Checklist.

It is a practical set of 5 actions that align with how the platform’s algorithm measures watch time, engagement and click-through rate.

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Here is the breakdown:

• Create a scroll stopping title. Keep it short, clear and curiosity-driven.

• Always add subtitles. They improve retention and make your content more accessible.

• Nail your hook in the first 3 seconds. This is when the viewer decides to keep watching.

• Adjust your publishing settings. Turn off the paid promotion tag if not running ads and set comments to basic.

• Do not miss the final tip in YouTube’s pinned comment. It is often the most impactful for new creators.

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Apply these steps consistently and you will start building videos that not only get views but hold attention.

That is when growth becomes predictable.

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