List promise hook

A list-promise hook tells viewers exactly how many points they will get, such as "three things new runners learn too late." It works because a number sets a clear expectation and makes the video feel efficient.

How it works

Use a small number (three to five) for short videos. Put the number on screen and show the first item immediately.

Make each item specific; padding a list with obvious points makes viewers drop off before the end. Save the strongest item for last, but make sure the first one is good too.

List hooks pair well with carousels and photo-mode posts.

Works best for

Tips and roundups
Carousels and photo-mode posts
Beginner-focused education

List promise hooks from the library

List promise

“Three products I would buy again with my own money.”

On-screen text3 I would rebuy

First frameThree nearly empty bottles.

Why it works: Signals honest, unsponsored picks.
List promise

“Three pantry staples I always keep for a fast dinner.”

On-screen text3 pantry staples

First frameThree jars on a shelf.

Why it works: Short and useful on busy nights.
List promise

“Three sounds in [game] that warn you before you see the enemy.”

On-screen text3 warning sounds

First frameHeadphones and a sound wave on screen.

Why it works: Useful for players who play with sound.
List promise

“Three props I would buy before an expensive mat.”

On-screen text3 props before a mat

First frameA block, strap and cushion.

Why it works: Practical advice that saves money.
List promise

“Three signs your gutters need clearing before winter.”

On-screen text3 gutter warning signs

First frameA gutter with plants growing in it.

Why it works: Seasonal advice homeowners save.
List promise

“Three jobs to do before you paint a room.”

On-screen text3 jobs before painting

First frameTape, filler and a sanding block.

Why it works: Prep steps people skip.
List promise

“Two subscriptions I cancelled and never missed.”

On-screen text2 subscriptions, gone

First frameA phone settings page with two apps highlighted.

Why it works: A small, believable saving viewers can copy.
List promise

“Two things to do the day after a job interview.”

On-screen text2 things after an interview

First frameA thank-you email draft.

Why it works: Short, actionable and saveable.
List promise

“Three things customers read before they look at the price.”

On-screen text3 things before price

First frameA product page with three areas circled.

Why it works: Useful priorities for product pages.
List promise

“Three things I pack for every outdoor shoot that are not cameras.”

On-screen text3 non-camera essentials

First frameA bag with a reflector, clips and snacks.

Why it works: Practical and a little surprising.
List promise

“Three free things to do in [city] that locals actually like.”

On-screen text3 free local favourites

First frameA park bench with the city behind it.

Why it works: Free and local are two strong draws.
List promise

“Three warm-up moves I do before every leg day.”

On-screen text3 leg day warm-ups

First frameBodyweight squat with number 1 on screen.

Why it works: Short, practical and quick to save.