How to Write Hooks That Stop Scrolls: The 3-Second Rule
You have 3 seconds. That's it.
In those first 3 seconds, viewers decide whether to keep watching or scroll away. Your hook—the opening line of your video—is the most important part of your content.
Here's how to write hooks that actually work.
Why Hooks Matter More Than Ever
Platform algorithms reward videos that keep viewers watching. If someone scrolls away in the first 3 seconds, the algorithm sees that as a signal that your content isn't valuable. Your video gets buried.
But if your hook grabs attention and keeps them watching past the 3-second mark? The algorithm pushes your video to more people.
The math is simple: better hooks = more watch time = more reach = more views.
Understanding the 3-Second Rule
The 3-second rule isn't arbitrary. It's based on how our brains process information:
- 0-1 seconds: Initial visual assessment
- 1-2 seconds: Pattern recognition and categorization
- 2-3 seconds: Decision to engage or disengage
Your hook needs to interrupt this decision-making process and create enough intrigue to keep viewers watching.
The 5 Proven Hook Frameworks
1. The Curiosity Gap
Create intrigue by revealing partial information. The key is to give enough information to create interest, but not enough to satisfy curiosity.
Examples:
- "I made $10,000 in one month doing this one thing..."
- "The one mistake that's killing your engagement (and you're probably making it right now)..."
- "This changed everything for me (and it's not what you think)..."
Why it works: Our brains are wired to seek closure. When you create a gap between what viewers know and what they want to know, they'll keep watching to fill that gap.
Pro tip: The curiosity gap works best when the information you're withholding is genuinely valuable, not just clickbait.
2. Problem-Agitate-Solve
Identify a problem your audience has, make them feel it more deeply, then promise a solution.
Examples:
- "Your videos aren't getting views because you're making this mistake in the first 3 seconds..."
- "Stop doing this if you want to go viral (most creators do it wrong)..."
- "This is why your content isn't working, and here's how to fix it..."
Why it works: This framework creates an emotional connection by acknowledging the viewer's pain point, then positions you as the solution.
Pro tip: Be specific about the problem. "Your videos aren't getting views" is vague. "Your videos aren't getting views because your hook doesn't create curiosity" is specific and actionable.
3. The Number/List Hook
Specific numbers create credibility and set clear expectations.
Examples:
- "3 ways to 10x your views starting today..."
- "5 mistakes that kill your engagement (avoid these)..."
- "The one thing that changed everything for my content..."
Why it works: Numbers make promises concrete and measurable. They also help viewers understand what to expect from your video.
Pro tip: Odd numbers (3, 5, 7) tend to perform better than even numbers. They feel more authentic and less "marketing-y."
4. The Question Hook
Pose a thought-provoking question that your audience can't help but answer.
Examples:
- "What if I told you there's a better way to write hooks?"
- "Why do some creators go viral while others don't?"
- "Are you making this common mistake in your hooks?"
Why it works: Questions engage the viewer's brain immediately. They start thinking about the answer, which keeps them watching to see if they're right.
Pro tip: Use questions that your audience can answer internally, but wants to verify. This creates engagement without requiring them to comment.
5. The Story Hook
Start with a narrative that creates an emotional connection or demonstrates transformation.
Examples:
- "I was getting 50 views per video until I tried this hook framework..."
- "Last week, I made a mistake that cost me 10,000 followers. Here's what I learned..."
- "Three months ago, I had zero followers. Here's what changed when I started using this hook..."
Why it works: Stories are how humans process information. A good story hook creates empathy and makes viewers want to hear the rest.
Pro tip: The best story hooks show transformation. Start with a problem or struggle, then hint at the solution or outcome.
How to Test Your Hooks
The best hook for your audience might not be obvious. Here's how to find what works:
1. A/B Test Similar Content
Create two versions of the same video with different hooks. Post them at different times or on different days and compare performance.
What to measure:
- Watch time (especially past 3 seconds)
- Engagement rate
- Completion rate
- Comments and shares
2. Track Watch Time
Hooks that keep viewers past 3 seconds are winners. Use your platform's analytics to see where viewers drop off.
Red flag: If viewers are dropping off in the first 3 seconds, your hook isn't working.
3. Analyze Comments
See what resonates with your audience. Are they asking questions? Sharing similar experiences? This tells you what's working.
4. Double Down on What Works
When a hook performs well, use that framework again. Don't reinvent the wheel—iterate on what works.
Common Hook Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Being Too Vague
Bad: "This is important" Good: "This one mistake is killing your engagement"
Mistake 2: Not Delivering on the Promise
If your hook promises to reveal a secret, actually reveal it. Don't bait and switch.
Mistake 3: Using Clickbait
Clickbait might get clicks, but it kills trust. Be intriguing, not misleading.
Mistake 4: Ignoring Your Platform
What works on TikTok might not work on Instagram Reels. Adapt your hooks to your platform.
Mistake 5: Not Testing
Don't assume you know what works. Test different hooks and let the data guide you.
The HookSmith AI Advantage
Writing hooks is hard. That's why HookSmith AI generates 10 unique hooks for every video idea, using proven frameworks optimized for your platform and audience.
Features:
- Platform-specific optimization (TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, UGC)
- Funnel stage targeting (cold traffic, warm audience, retargeting)
- Multiple hook frameworks (curiosity gap, problem-solve, questions, stories, lists)
- Instant generation (no more staring at a blank screen)
Stop staring at a blank screen. Start creating hooks that actually work.
Ready to create hooks that stop scrolls? Download HookSmith AI and generate your first 10 hooks in seconds.