How to Turn Script into Video in 5 Simple Steps

Karina Kasparova
Updated:
May 17, 2023

You've written your video script, laid out your visual and audio elements on paper, and now it's time to create video content.

There's just one tiiiny challenge - you need to know how to set up and use a camera, how to film different types of video clips, and how to edit those clips in post-production.

If you master all of the above, this guide isn't for you. 🙅‍♂️

This guide is for beginner video creators who want to start making awesome videos, but don't have the time, skills, or equipment to do so.

We will be using a tool called Synthesia STUDIO to transform a video script into video without using cameras, actors, studios, microphones, or editing software.

So let's bring your video script to life!

How to Transform Script to Video (With No Equipment)

What videos can you make in Synthesia STUDIO?

We'll be honest.

If you want to create cinematic video content or blogger-style YouTube videos, come back in a few years, when our tool has evolved. 😉

However, what you CAN create in Synthesia STUDIO and what thousands of other companies make, are:

... and so much more.

So if you need to create a scripted video for your video marketing plan, or you need to train hundreds/thousands of employees in multiple languages, this guide is for you.

What do you need to turn a script into video in Synthesia STUDIO?

Before we start creating videos, let's make sure we have all the necessary tools and materials on hand.

You will need:

  1. A video script
  2. A Synthesia STUDIO account
  3. (Optional) Visual and audio elements

No cameras, microphones, lighting setups, or actors needed!

How to turn a script into a video using Synthesia STUDIO

We'll be using a video generation tool called Synthesia STUDIO for demonstration purposes, but the general order of the steps also applies to other methods of video creation.

Step #1: Write a script

We won't be getting into the details of that in this blog post.

We have a full separate guide on how to write an effective video script on the blog that you can check out instead.

But if you don't have the actual video script yet, now is the time to start writing.

The final script will serve as a building block for the video, so make sure to you have a good script on hand.

Tip 💡

Include notes on the visual elements, as well as the written content for narration separated by scenes. You can also use a storyboard instead of a text-based script.

Step #2: Pick out a video template

Now that you have your video script ready, let's find a video template that will align with the individual scenes in your video script.

If it's easier for you, you can start with a specialized video template and write a script to fit that template.

Otherwise, browse through our video templates and select the ones that fit the scenes in your video script.

Step #3: Insert your text

This step couldn't be any easier.

Simply copy the text from each scene in your video script and paste it into the script box slide by slide.

To the left of the script box, you will notice that the language and voice style change.

And what exactly does that mean for you?

It means that you won't have to record and upload your own voiceover, because Synthesia's text-to-speech engine will create one for you.

All you need to do is paste in your text, and choose a language and voice type. That's it!

Step #4 Visualize text

Depending on the template layout you chose for each scene, the way you visualize the written script will be different.

Here are the 5 options you have for visualizing text on screen in Synthesia STUDIO:

Option 1: Talking head

A talking head video style involves a human presenter that narrates the text.

You don't need to hire an actor for that or film yourself to make a talking head video in Synthesia.

You just need to choose a human-like AI avatar that will narrate the text you pasted in the script box previously.

To add an AI presenter to your video, click on 'Avatar' on top of the video canvas, and choose the one that best fits the video.

Option 2: Stock (or own) footage

If you need to demonstrate a more abstract topic or you're using a metaphor to illustrate a point, video footage in the background is the perfect visual.

Feel free to upload your own photos or videos if you have them.

Otherwise, you can browse our extensive library of photo and video footage. 🎞

To find or upload images and videos in STUDIO, go to 'Media' and browse the selection or upload your own photo or video file.

Option 3: Text on screen

Sometimes you just need to make sure people remember and understand the point you're trying to make.

No better way to do that than to duplicate the narration with text on screen.

Add text to your video by clicking on 'Text' on top of the video canvas, and choosing between adding a Title, Subtitle, or Body Text.

Tip 💡

Instead of writing simple bullet points, see how you can animate your text for a bigger impact 👇

Better Bullet Points

Option 4: Screen recording

Screen recordings are especially useful if you're making a how-to video or an explainer video and need to demonstrate a certain task on screen.

To create a screen recording in STUDIO, go to 'Record'.

Choose between recording the entire screen, the browser window, or the browser tab.

Once you have your recording, you can crop, trim or loop it.

More of a visual learner? Here's a tutorial for you:

How to Create a Screen Recording Video

Option 5: Data on screen

If you're creating video reports or a case study video, data slides are essential.

Make sure the graphs and charts are the focus of the slide by removing any other visuals like AI avatars, images, and videos.

To make your charts pop, add animations to individual graph elements and time them with the narration.

Step #5 Generate video

That's it!

Your written video script is now an engaging video!

Once you have generated your video, you can download it, share it by copying the URL or embed it anywhere you want.

Too good to be true? Make a free demo!

Our goal is to enable non-professionals to create videos without spending thousands of dollars on video equipment or months on learning video production.

If you have a video script that needs to be transformed into a video, try a free demo of Synthesia to get started in minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a video script?

A video script is a written version of a video that includes all of the dialogue, scene directions, and other information used for video production. It serves as a roadmap for the production process and helps ensure that all elements of the video are aligned with the intended message and story.

How do I turn a script into a video?

To turn a script into a video, use Synthesia STUDIO and follow these simple steps:

  1. Write an engaging video script
  2. Choose a video template. This will simplify video production for you.
  3. Insert your text into the video template scene by scene. The text will be transformed into a voiceover.
  4. Add visuals, like AI avatars, images, videos, screen recordings.
  5. Generate the video and share it by link, embed, or download.
How do I make a script for training videos?

To make a script for training videos, follow these steps:

  1. Define the objective: Determine the main goal of the training video and what you want the audience to learn.
  2. Determine the target audience: Who is the video intended for? Consider their background, skills, and level of knowledge.
  3. Outline the content: Create an outline of the content that needs to be covered in the video.
  4. Write the script: Start by writing the introduction and hook the audience's attention. Then, include the main points of the content and add examples, stories, and anecdotes to keep the audience engaged. End with a conclusion and a call-to-action.
  5. Keep it concise: A training video script should be concise, so make sure to keep each section short and to the point.
  6. Revise and review: Review the script multiple times to make sure it's clear, concise, and effective. Ask colleagues or friends for feedback, and make revisions as needed.
  7. Prepare for filming: Make sure you have all the necessary equipment, props, and materials ready for filming.