If you are a YouTuber, you may have probably heard people mention the infamous YouTube algorithm. For many content creators, the algorithm is the bane of their existence, as they consider it to be the main culprit behind their hampered growth. 

Often, YouTubers design content around how to understand and master algorithms, which, believe it or not, is a popular topic for discussion on the platform. If you are finding it hard to grow on the platform, you may have also, at some point, Googled about how to hack the YouTube algorithm or what you can do to get more views. Trust me when I tell you—you are not alone! 

Algorithms, whether for YouTube or any other social media platform, are like mysterious creatures who work in strange ways. When it comes to YouTube, this algorithm is lurking in the background, controlling which videos would show on the homepage, in recommendations or even on the search results. As they continue to evolve, it is tough to conquer them. 

But do not worry; we are here to help! This guide will show you how to get the algorithm working in your favor so you can get more views and enhance your presence on YouTube. Let's explore how YouTube decides which videos to show to its users and how you can ensure that your content gets noticed, too. 

Ready to learn how to work with YouTube algorithms? Let’s go!

The YouTube Algorithm: An Insight

YouTube’s algorithm is like the platform’s matchmaker. Their job is not to promote your video just because you uploaded it; they are focused on pairing the right content with the right viewer. The goal is to keep people watching for longer. So, it only makes sense to show them what they prefer to watch.

In essence, the algorithm tries to figure out what your audience will love based on their interests, behavior, and viewing history. To put it simply, it is less about you and more about the viewers. The algorithm's job is to make sure that YouTube keeps users engaged—whether they want to see tutorials, entertainment, or the latest viral challenges, the algorithm ensures they see what they like. 

The YouTube Algorithm You Should Know About

When it comes to algorithms, there is a caveat! There is not just one algorithm working behind the screen. In reality, there are multiple algorithm types—each designed for a different aspect of the platform. YouTube is huge and it needs different approaches to serve content effectively. Here are some algorithm forms you should know about as a content creator.

The Homepage Algorithm

The homepage is like your first impression when you log into YouTube. The homepage algorithm is designed to curate the content you see when you open YouTube. It takes note of what type of content you have watched more in the past, how long you watched it, and what forms of content keep you engaged. 

The goal here is to hook you with the best possible videos that match your interests right from the onset.  

The Suggested Videos Algorithm

You know how after watching one video, you are tempted to watch just one more, and this continues for quite some time. Happens to the best of us! This is basically the suggested video algorithm hard at work. It analyzes your current viewing session and recommends more content based on what you have watched and liked previously. This algorithm also looks at which videos tend to be watched together—so if you are watching a video about baking, expect to see more baking-related videos popping up one after the other.

The Search Algorithm

YouTube’s search bar is essentially a search engine in its own right. When you search for something, the algorithm evaluates the keywords, video titles, descriptions, and even the content of the video to determine which videos should appear. This is where the YouTube search engine optimization comes in. It refers to optimizing your YouTube content for better visibility on YouTube’s search engine. More on that later! 

The YouTube Shorts Algorithm

Short-form video content has become immensely popular in recent years, and the popularity of TikTok Ins, Instagram, and Facebook reels is proof of this. YouTube shorts also leverage the popularity of this content, making them a major player in this segment.

The shorts algorithm works similarly to others but with a focus on quick and snappy content. It tracks your interests and how long you watch, and suggests more bite-sized videos based on similar themes or from similar creators. More often than not, viewers find it hard to stop scrolling once they start, thereby increasing their watch time. 

Now, you may be wondering how all these algorithms work together to help your content get seen. To answer this question, here is a closer look at the various factors that YouTube considers when recommending videos to viewers.

How Does YouTube Determine What to Show You

Did you know that around 500 hours of content are uploaded on YouTube every minute? How does YouTube sift through it all to find what is relevant for you? This is where machine learning plays its magic! YouTube algorithms are not perfect, but they are always learning for user behavior and evolving accordingly. 

Here are some of the main elements that YouTube factors in to determine which videos to recommend to individual viewers:

Relevance to the Search Terms

When a viewer types something into the search bar, YouTube wants to present them with the most relevant content possible. So, if you are making a video about pet training, make sure your title, tags, and description clearly indicate what topic your content is based on. It is important to include keywords that people use to search.

Engagement Metrics

Engagement, like other social media platforms, is an important indicator at YouTube. How long do people watch a certain video? Do they leave a thumbs up or a comment on it or even go on to share it? All these actions tell YouTube that your content is connecting with viewers. If viewers interact with your video, YouTube will most likely push it out to a broader audience, thereby getting you more views. 

Watch Time and Retention

When it comes to YouTube videos, the key to ranking high is to keep the people hooked so they keep watching your content for as long as possible. If people drop off after a few seconds, the algorithm may see it as a sign that your videos are not engaging enough. On the other hand, if your video holds their attention from the beginning till the end, YouTube will reward you with more visibility.

Video Quality and Authority

When it comes to content, quality is highly important. YouTube algorithm is designed to promote content that is trustworthy and authoritative. This is why channels that regularly upload high-quality videos on a particular topic are ranked higher. So, if you want to become an authority in your niche, try to upload content consistently that also adds value for your audience. 

Consistency and Uploading Frequency

As mentioned above, when you upload content regularly, it shows that you are committed to providing fresh content. You do not need to upload every day, but maintaining a consistent schedule will help you build momentum and ensure your videos continue to get recommended to your target audience. 

It is important to keep in mind that YouTube does not put popularity over relevance. Your videos may not be the most popular, but if they match what a certain viewer is looking for, your content will still show in their feed. 

Get More Views on YouTube: Some Helpful Tips

Now that you have a basic idea of how the YouTube algorithm works, let's talk about how you can leverage it to get more views for your videos. Here are some tried and tested strategies that I highly recommend if you want to break through the noise and start getting more views on YouTube: 

Hook Them Right From the Start: Keep Them Watching

We have all been there! Clicking on one video, only to click away in the first few seconds because it did not seem interesting enough. As I mentioned earlier, YouTube values watch time, so if people click away quickly, your videos will not get the push you need for more visibility. 

To prevent this from happening, start strong with an engaging hook that lets viewers know exactly what they will get if they stick to the end. The quicker you get their attention, the better your chances of keeping them hooked for longer. 

Create Thumbnails and Titles that Catch the Eye

When a viewer is randomly scrolling through content, your title and thumbnail are the first things they see, making them the first impression you make on the prospective audience. If the title or thumbnail is bland–nothing eye-catching, people will easily scroll past it. A custom-made, attractive thumbnail can be the difference between a video that gets clicked and the one that is ignored. 

Moreover, you must ensure that your title is clear and makes viewers feel compelled to watch it. Incorporate keywords in the title so that they look natural, but do not overdo it. Also, do not forget to test different designs and see which ones perform best. The ones that get more clicks should be considered as inspiration for later use. 

Optimize Videos for Better Searchability

Earlier, I briefly touched upon the topic of SEO for YouTube. Just like Google, YouTube uses SEO to determine which videos rank higher in search results. To ensure you optimize your videos to improve discoverability, consider adding relevant keywords in your title, description as well as tags. The more context you provide around your content, the easier it will be for the algorithm to recommend your video to the right audience. 

Finding the right audience for your content is the key to organic growth. When your prospective audience likes what they see, they will be compelled to engage with your content and even share it in their networks, thereby bringing in more views for your content.

Do Not Spam, But Be Consistent

Uploading content consistently helps keep your channel active and relevant. It is also a message for YouTube that you are an active creator who is worth recommending. 

But here is the catch! When it comes to content, quality always trumps quantity. Posting too much may not go in your favor, as people may feel their feed is being spammed by your content. If your videos are great, but you only upload once a week or a month, even this is fine. Just stick to that consistency and keep delivering value to your viewers so they look forward to your videos. 

Encourage Engagement

You may have often seen Youtubers asking viewers to like, comment, and share their videos and subscribe to their channels. These gentle reminders are intended to boost engagement. This is because more interaction means more visibility, and this principle applies to every social media platform. 

Ask your audience to like, comment, and share your videos. Make active efforts to engage with them in the comments section to build a loyal community. The more active your community is, the more likely YouTube will push your videos to others, thereby boosting your views count.

Keep Your Viewers Binge-Watching: Create Playlists

You can also create playlists that group similar videos. This will encourage viewers to watch more of your content. YouTube loves it when people stay on the platform for long periods of time. So, if you offer your audience a smooth flow of content, it will boost your chances of getting recommended.

You can also make use of shorts to increase watch time and invite more views. YouTube Shorts are a great way to gain visibility. With the algorithm constantly promoting fresh and engaging content, Shorts can help improve your discoverability by a new audience. To make the most of this content form, focus on making creative, fun, or even educational Shorts to draw in viewers who may want to stick around for longer content afterward.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the YouTube algorithm is there to help you, provided you play by its rules. It is all about how you keep your audience engaged and provide them with the content they love. When you understand how YouTube decides what to recommend and take the right measures to optimize your channel to attract a wider audience, you can set yourself up for lasting success. 

If you are new on YouTube or have been struggling with growth and getting views for your videos, you may think of the algorithm as quite daunting. However, algorithms are not something that you must outsmart. It is a system that is designed to make sure that great content reaches the right people. So, focus on making amazing content, engage with your audience, and give YouTube all the right signals, so the algorithm will start working for you and not against you.