Decide the goal, write a short script, prepare clean app screens, storyboard each scene, animate the interface, add sound, then export versions for each platform.
An app explainer shows a mobile or web app solving a problem in under a minute or two. Here is the process I follow.
1. Set one goal
Choose a single outcome: downloads, sign-ups or understanding. One goal keeps the video focused.
2. Write a short script
Use a clear structure: problem, solution, three steps, benefit, call to action. See my script template.
3. Prepare the screens
Gather clean screenshots or design files, ideally from your design tool. Use real-looking data and remove anything private. If your app has dark and light modes, tell the editor which to show.
4. Storyboard
Sketch each scene: what's on screen, what the voice says and how long it lasts. This is the cheapest place to fix problems.
5. Animate the interface
Good UI animation guides the eye. Buttons press, screens slide and key elements highlight, all with simple, consistent motion. Avoid effects that make the app look different from the real one.
6. Add voice-over and sound
A clear voice, light music and small interface sounds make the video feel finished. Keep music low enough for the voice.
7. Review and revise
Watch the draft on a phone with the sound off, and then with sound. Check that every claim about the product is accurate.
8. Export
Make a wide version for your site and YouTube, a vertical version for Reels and Shorts, and a short cut-down for ads.
Want it done for you?
This is the kind of video I make. See examples such as the Claimly and CashFish projects or ask about my app explainer service.
What to prepare for the screens
- Exported screens from your design tool, grouped by flow
- A list of the three to five moments that matter most
- Dark and light versions if your app has both
- Icons and illustrations in vector format, so they stay sharp when zoomed
Example scene plan
This is an invented plan for a made-up budgeting app.
| Scene | On screen | Voice-over |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cluttered receipts fly in | "Tracking spending shouldn't feel like homework." |
| 2 | App home screen | "Meet the app that does it for you." |
| 3 | Bank connection animation | "Connect your account." |
| 4 | Categories sort automatically | "Watch every purchase sort itself." |
| 5 | Monthly summary | "See where your money goes." |
| 6 | Logo and button | "Download it today." |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Showing the app only, with no human problem to anchor it
- Moving too fast through screens
- Using a mockup that looks different from the shipped product
- Forgetting accessibility, such as contrast and captions
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to share my design files?
They help a lot. If you can't share them, screenshots or screen recordings work, though animation will be less flexible.
What if my app isn't finished yet?
You can animate from design mockups. Tell the editor which screens are final and which may change.
How long should an app explainer be?
Usually 30 to 90 seconds. See how long an explainer video should be.
Do you work with vertical formats?
Yes. Several of my app videos are vertical, such as the Claimly fitness app explainers in the portfolio.
Bhavesh Vaghela
Freelance video editor and motion designer in Rajkot, India. I make short-form videos, motion graphics, SaaS explainers, logo animations and AI video for clients worldwide.
