Planning AI videos: a five-step workflow

Toolfaro · 31 October 2026 · Created with AI assistance

An AI video is more than moving images. You need a clear message, suitable audio and editing that brings them together. Decide on the result you want first, then choose your tools.

1. Define a single message

Write one sentence you want viewers to remember. For an explainer, this might be: “This is how I plan next week’s posts.” It gives you a clear structure: show the problem, explain the solution, demonstrate the result. Avoid cramming five different features into a short clip.

2. Write a script with scenes

Separate spoken words from on-screen action. This helps you see whether a sentence is supported by a visual or merely fills time. Read the script aloud and time it before generating visuals or voices.

3. Choose between a demo and generated visuals

When explaining software, a real screen recording shows its capabilities most clearly. Generated scenes can introduce a topic or set a mood, but should not imitate an actual interface. For generated clips, for example, Runway offers text-to-video and image-to-video features.

4. Bring voice and editing together

A text-to-speech tool such as ElevenLabs can narrate your script. Check pronunciation, pauses and emphasis with a short sample. For speech-based editing, you can use Descript’s text-based audio and video editing. These are different tasks; one tool does not have to handle them all.

5. Check before exporting

• Does the aspect ratio suit the platform where you plan to publish?
• Are subtitles readable on a small screen?
• Is speech clear and music quiet enough?
• Are all claims about the featured product accurate?
• Have you checked the usage terms for visuals, voice and music?

Start with a complete trial video

Create one clip from start to finish. Note where rework was needed and what it cost. Only then apply the process to a series. A repeatable workflow is more useful than subscribing to many tools at once.

Explore suitable tools →