YouTube ranks videos and channels using a complex algorithm that takes numerous factors into account. While the exact algorithm is proprietary and not publicly disclosed, it’s influenced by various on-page and off-page factors. Here’s a list of 50 factors that can impact how YouTube ranks videos and channels. Keep in mind that these factors can change over time as YouTube updates its algorithm:
On-Page Factors:
- Video Title: Use clear, descriptive, and engaging titles that include relevant keywords.
- Video Description: Write detailed, keyword-rich descriptions that provide context about your video’s content.
- Video Tags: Add relevant tags to help YouTube understand the content of your video.
- Thumbnail Quality: Create eye-catching and relevant thumbnails that encourage clicks.
- Video Length: Longer videos can accumulate more watch time if they keep viewers engaged.
- Audience Retention: High audience retention rates signal quality content. Keep viewers watching throughout the video.
- Engagement Metrics: Likes, comments, shares, and subscriptions are essential indicators of engagement.
- Closed Captions: Adding captions can improve accessibility and may boost SEO.
- Video Transcript: Including a transcript in the video description can improve searchability.
- End Screens: Use end screens to encourage viewers to watch more of your content.
- Cards: Use cards to link to related videos, playlists, or external websites.
- Playlist Inclusion: Include videos in relevant playlists to increase visibility.
- Content Quality: High-quality audio and visuals enhance viewer experience.
- Upload Frequency: Consistently uploading new content can keep your channel active.
- Video Quality: 4K and HD videos may rank higher.
Off-Page Factors:
- Watch Time: The total amount of time viewers spend watching your videos is crucial.
- Click-Through Rate (CTR): A high CTR indicates that your thumbnail and title are engaging.
- Subscriber Growth: A growing subscriber base is a positive signal to YouTube.
- Video Sharing: Shares on social media and other platforms can boost visibility.
- User Interaction: Respond to comments and engage with your audience.
- Channel Authority: Established channels may rank higher due to their history.
- Video Age: Older videos can accumulate more watch time and engagement.
- Video Engagement: The level of likes, comments, shares, and click-through rate.
- Content Relevance: Videos relevant to trending topics may rank higher.
- Viewer Behavior: User actions like rewinding, pausing, and rewinding can indicate engagement.
User Behavior Factors:
- Search Queries: Videos matching popular search queries may rank well.
- Watch History: YouTube considers a user’s past viewing history when making recommendations.
- Subscriptions: Videos from subscribed channels are prioritized in the subscriber’s feed.
- Location and Language: Videos relevant to a viewer’s location and language may rank higher.
- Time of Day: Video performance can vary based on when it’s published.
Channel Factors:
- Channel Keywords: Include relevant keywords in your channel description.
- Channel Metadata: Fill out your channel’s about section with information and keywords.
- Channel Engagement: High engagement across all videos can benefit the channel’s ranking.
- Playlist Usage: Playlists with high engagement can boost a channel’s authority.
- Channel Growth: Consistent growth in subscribers and views can indicate channel quality.
- Channel Customization: Customize your channel layout and sections for a better user experience.
- Content Variety: Diversify your content to reach a broader audience.
Social Signals:
- Social Shares: Videos shared on social media platforms can gain more visibility.
- Backlinks: External links to your videos may improve search rankings.
- Embeds: Embedded videos on websites can increase watch time.
Video Metadata:
- Video Filename: Use descriptive filenames for your video uploads.
- Video Resolution: Higher resolution videos may rank better.
- Video Format: YouTube supports various video formats; choose one that suits your content.
User Feedback:
- Flagging: Videos flagged for violating YouTube’s policies may see reduced visibility.
- Video Reports: User reports may trigger YouTube’s review process.
- Viewer Feedback: Negative viewer feedback can affect recommendations.
Ad Revenue:
- Ad Revenue: YouTube may promote videos that generate higher ad revenue.
- Monetization Status: Monetized videos may receive favorable treatment.
YouTube Trends:
- Trending Videos: Videos that become trending may receive additional visibility.
- User Watchlist: Videos added to users’ watchlists may be recommended.
Optimizing for these factors can help your YouTube videos and channels perform better and increase their chances of ranking well. However, remember that YouTube’s algorithm is dynamic, and success on the platform requires ongoing content creation, audience engagement, and adaptation to algorithm changes.