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Free YouTube Caption Generator

AI-powered captions optimized for YouTube

Create optimized YouTube descriptions with our AI tool. Includes timestamps, links, and SEO keywords. Free, no login required.

Character limit: 5000 characters

Table of Contents

  1. YouTube Caption Generator
  2. Best Practices
  3. Frequently Asked Questions

Features

  • AI-generated YouTube descriptions
  • SEO-optimized content
  • Timestamp suggestions
  • Link placement optimization
  • 5,000 character limit support
  • Keyword integration
  • Call-to-action prompts
  • Hashtag suggestions
  • Copy to clipboard
  • 100% free tool

YouTube Caption Best Practices

Front-Load Important Information

YouTube only shows the first 2-3 lines of your description before 'Show More'. Put your key message and CTA at the top.

  • Summarize your video in the first sentence
  • Add your main CTA in the first 3 lines
  • Include your most important link first
  • Use the first 150 characters wisely

Use Keywords for SEO

YouTube descriptions help your videos rank in search. Include relevant keywords naturally throughout.

  • Add your main keyword in the first sentence
  • Include variations and long-tail keywords
  • Don't keyword stuff—write naturally
  • Use keywords that match your video title

Add Timestamps

Timestamps improve user experience and can help your video appear in Google search results.

  • Format as 0:00 - Introduction
  • Include all major sections
  • Make timestamp labels descriptive
  • Start with 0:00 for the intro

Include Links and Resources

Your description is prime real estate for driving traffic. Add relevant links and resources.

  • Link to related videos or playlists
  • Add affiliate links (with disclosure)
  • Include social media links
  • Use 'Links mentioned:' section

Related Free YouTube Tools

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the YouTube description character limit?
YouTube descriptions can be up to 5,000 characters (about 800 words). However, only the first 100-150 characters are visible before users click 'Show More', so front-load your most important content.
Do hashtags work in YouTube descriptions?
Yes! YouTube supports up to 15 hashtags per video. The first 3 hashtags appear above your video title. Use 3-5 relevant hashtags for best results, and include them at the end of your description.
Should I add timestamps to my YouTube description?
Yes! Timestamps (chapters) improve user experience, increase watch time, and can help your video appear in Google search results. Format them as 0:00 - Section Name.
Can I edit YouTube descriptions after uploading?
Yes! You can edit YouTube video descriptions at any time. Go to YouTube Studio, select your video, click 'Details', edit the description, and save. This is useful for optimizing older videos.
What should I include in a YouTube description?
A complete YouTube description should include: a video summary (first 2-3 lines), timestamps for chapters, links to resources mentioned, social media links, a call-to-action (subscribe, comment), relevant keywords for SEO, and 3-5 hashtags.
How do I optimize YouTube descriptions for SEO?
To optimize for SEO: include your main keyword in the first sentence, write a detailed description (300-500 characters minimum), add relevant keywords naturally, include timestamps, use 3-5 hashtags, and link to related videos.
Can I add links in YouTube descriptions?
Yes! You can add links to websites, social media, products, and other YouTube videos. Links are clickable and can drive traffic. Place your most important link in the first 3 lines for maximum visibility.
Should I use the same description for all my videos?
No. Each video should have a unique description with specific keywords, timestamps, and links. However, you can create a template with standard elements (channel links, social media) and customize the rest per video.
What's the best call-to-action for YouTube descriptions?
Effective CTAs include: 'Subscribe for more [content type]', 'Comment your questions below', 'Check out this related video', 'Download the free resource here', or 'Follow me on Instagram for behind-the-scenes'. Place your CTA in the first 3 lines.
How long should a YouTube description be?
Aim for 200-350 characters minimum for SEO benefits. Longer descriptions (500-1,000 characters) can rank better if they provide value. Include timestamps, links, and keywords, but avoid fluff. Quality matters more than length.

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