If you’re creating video content for YouTube, you already know how important it is to keep viewers engaged—and coming back for more. Two of the simplest, most effective ways to do that? Subtitles and end screens.
Adding subtitles helps make your content more accessible to a wider audience, including non-native speakers and the hearing impaired. Meanwhile, end screens are powerful tools for keeping viewers on your channel by prompting them to watch more videos, subscribe, or visit your website.
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to help you add both subtitles and end screens to your YouTube videos.
📝 How to Add Subtitles to Your YouTube Video
Step 1: Sign into YouTube Studio
Go to YouTube Studio and sign in with the account that uploaded the video.
Step 2: Choose the Video
From the menu on the left, click Content and select the video you want to edit.
Step 3: Open Subtitles
Click on Subtitles in the left-hand menu or directly from the video editing options.
Step 4: Add Language
If it’s your first time adding subtitles, you’ll need to select the language spoken in your video. YouTube might auto-detect this.
Step 5: Choose Your Subtitle Method
YouTube gives you a few options:
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Upload file – if you have an SRT or SBV subtitle file.
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Auto-sync – paste your transcript and YouTube will auto-time it to your video.
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Type manually – type subtitles as you watch the video.
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Auto-generate – YouTube often provides auto-generated captions you can edit.
Step 6: Save and Publish
Once your subtitles are ready, click Publish to save them to your video.
✅ Pro Tip: Edit auto-generated captions to fix timing errors and misheard words.
🎬 How to Add an End Screen to Your YouTube Video
Step 1: Return to the Video Editor
Still in YouTube Studio, click the Editor option on the left sidebar.
Step 2: Add End Screen
In the timeline below your video, click + Add an end screen.
Step 3: Choose a Template or Create Your Own
YouTube gives you a few template options with placements for:
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A subscribe button
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A video or playlist
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A channel link
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An external website (if you’re part of the YouTube Partner Program)
You can mix and match elements or manually position them.
Step 4: Set Timing
End screens can appear during the last 5–20 seconds of your video. Choose when you want yours to start and make sure nothing crucial in your video is covered.
Step 5: Save Changes
Once you’re satisfied with the layout and timing, click Save.
Why It Matters
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Subtitles improve accessibility, help with search engine optimization (SEO), and increase watch time.
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End screens drive engagement by encouraging viewers to take action.
Whether you’re a creator, business owner, or marketer, these two small tweaks can make a big difference in how people experience your content—and how long they stick around.
Need help editing your videos or creating custom branded end screens? We can help! Contact us today to make your YouTube content work harder for you.
