Whiteboard animation
You might have heard of whiteboard animation but maybe you're wondering what exactly it is, why it’s so popular or how you can create your own. If that’s the case, this guide has you covered! Read on to learn more all about whiteboard animation, or skip ahead to answer your specific question:
You'll also discover how VideoScribe can make it incredibly easy to create your own whiteboard animation videos. If you want to dive straight in, sign up for a free 7 day trial below, no credit card needed:
Free TrialBuy nowWhat is whiteboard animation?
Whiteboard animation is a style of video designed to look like the content is being hand-drawn on a school whiteboard or white background. It’s a particularly popular way to communicate complex information because the simple graphics are easy to understand.
Tools like VideoScribe make the process of creating whiteboard explainer videos and sketch animation videos straightforward and simple, while maintaining a polished finished product. VideoScribe can also be used to create chalkboard animations by making a few quick changes.
Make your own using this template in VideoScribe.
Whiteboard animation templates
To start capitalizing on the benefits of whiteboard animation in less than 5 minutes, use our professional quality templates. With a whole library to choose from, there’s something for everyone. Whether you want to tell your story, explain a topic or persuade an audience, we’ve got you covered.
Just swap out the images, and edit the text to make the templates your own!
Start a free 7-day VideoScribe free trial to access our full template library.
The benefits of whiteboard animation
1. They’re memorable
Research by Dr. Richard Wiseman found that 15% more information is retained from a whiteboard animation than a talking heads video.
2. They’re versatile
Whiteboard animations are suitable for any topic from educational videos to marketing content.
3. They’re easy to create yourself
Unlike live action video content you don’t need any experience or expensive equipment to create your own whiteboard animations. Tools like VideoScribe do all the hard work for you in a fraction of the time.
4. They hold attention
The combination of sound, movement and visuals appeals to all our senses and the way the animations draw keeps us interested to learn what will happen next.
5. They’re fun!
Whiteboard animations put people in a good mood which helps them learn. Suddenly the content isn’t work, it’s entertainment.
Get inspired by these whiteboard animation success stories
Increase sales revenue
Read how a VideoScribe user promoted their book release with video to and become a best-selling author
Growing followers
Read how our user grew their YouTube channel to 327,000 subscribers in two years with VideoScribe
Educate students globally
Read about how our user teaches thousands of students around the world using VideoScribe
Who are whiteboard animations for?
Sales people and marketers
Consumers not only want to see more video content from brands but they actually expect it. Creating whiteboard animations is a great way to meet that expectation in a quick, easy and affordable way.
Students
If you need to deliver an impressive looking presentation to your class then whiteboard animations will be your best friend. They’re easy to create in minutes but look like they took hours. Let your animation play in the background while you talk over the top, or record a voice-over to take some of the stress out of presenting.
Charities and not-for-profits
Whiteboard animation is a great way to share your message and promote your cause. Show your audiences through engaging video that can be made quickly, affordably, and easily.
Educators
Not only is it proven that whiteboard animations improve knowledge retention and student engagement, but they’re also easy to adapt to the different needs of your students.
HR and internal communications teams
Need your company announcement to stand out? Create a whiteboard animation. Unlike a paragraph of text in an email, animations are hard to ignore. Plus, you’ll convey more information in a fraction of the time it would take to explain in a document or briefing.
Agencies
Showcase your company and what you can offer clients in quick animated style. With whiteboard animation it's easy to convey the benefits you deliver.
3 whiteboard explainer videos to inspire your own
6 Thinking Hats
The 6 Thinking Hats is a concept that can transform your idea from something mediocre to something good.
Recruitment
This whiteboard video explains why you can trust Quantum's recruiters to find the talent you need to reach your goals.
Be a hero for World Heart Day
A short whiteboard explainer video created for the World Heart Federation to celebrate World Heart day.
When and where to use whiteboard animation
To introduce a topic:
If you want to launch a new initiative, product or subject, a whiteboard animation can help. The combination of movement, audio and visuals grab attention and keep viewers engaged throughout.
To explain an idea:
Whiteboard animations are particularly effective tools to explain even the most complex topics. You can use visual metaphors and infographics to help your audience process the information in terms they already understand.
To summarize information:
Because it’s much easier to retain information from a whiteboard animation, they make the perfect plenary or revision materials. Simply take the key points and turn them into a short but impactful video.
To persuade:
Since whiteboard animations tend to have simpler designs, your message can really shine and not get lost amongst stylized graphics. Use your whiteboard animations on websites, in emails, social media posts, PowerPoint presentations, or as public speaking resources.
How to make your own whiteboard animation in 4 easy steps
With VideoScribe, you can make a custom whiteboard animation in minutes. Plus, it’s a lot easier than you might think! No animation or video creation experience needed here.
Step 1: Sign up for your free VideoScribe trial
With no credit card details needed, you can start experimenting with VideoScribe in a couple of clicks. Sign up here.
Step 2: Pick a video template or start with a blank canvas
If you’re prone to blank screen fear then browse our ready-made template library and click to open one that suits your topic.
Or for a completely custom animation, get started with a blank canvas ready to fill with your ideas. Our free video planning template can help you refine your ideas before you move onto step 3.
Step 3: Record or upload your voice-over
We always recommend adding your voice-over to your video before you start tweaking the animations. That way you can time everything perfectly to your audio first time around. Get our tips and advice on recording a professional quality voice-over here.
Step 4: Tell your story
If you’re working with one of our templates then it’s time to get customizing. Just click to edit text, images, colors and fonts. Or drag and drop elements to customize the layout.
For our blank canvas crew - head to our image library to pick graphics that tell your story, add text and select music to bring your story to life.
Then hit publish to share your creation with the world!
VideoScribe whiteboard animation software
So you can see just how easy it is to create whiteboard animations with VideoScribe in minutes. But that’s just the start. VideoScribe has a whole host of easy-to-use features that make creating impressive animations a breeze. Let’s take a look…
Library of over 5 million images and GIFs
From backdrops and scenery to medical equipment, school supplies and people and pets we have images covering every topic. Plus, with the option to upload your own images, photos and GIFs your creative potential really is limitless!
Creative animation options at your fingertips
All VideoScribe images will automatically draw themselves when you hit play. But for extra sparkle, experiment with other animation options including move in, fade in, morph images from one to another and more. Hello professional animation techniques!
Over 190 royalty free tracks and voice-over recording
No explainer video would be complete without sound. Which is why we have a built in music library complete with tracks covering a range of genres. You can also record your own voice-over right from VideoScribe - no other tools needed!
Diverse range of drawing hands, pens and erasers
For a truly custom explainer, pick a drawing hand and pen that’s right for your character, story or message. From paint brushes and markers, to pencils and crayons, there’s something for everyone.
Canvas sizes for every occasion
Whether you’re creating explainer videos to share on your website or social media, VideoScribe has canvas sizes to suit your needs. Just click to switch between square, vertical and traditional 16:9 canvas options.
Unlock limitless creativity with premium features
Plus, with a paid VideoScribe membership you’ll get access to all of the above and these killer tools to make whiteboard animations that dazzle:
Full access to thousands of premium images
Download your creations as HD MP4s, GIFs, PowerPoint presentations and more
Remove our logo watermark and add your own
The option to resell your video creations
Unlimited online support from our knowledgeable team
Everything you need to get started
The science behind why whiteboard animations are so effective
3-part guide to video success
