When we work with a program and we get stuck, we look for the manual or consult a useful guide in a specialized forum. However, especially when it comes to complex issues, written clarifications are not always sufficient. In that case, it is worth looking for suitable videos where the functions of the programs are clearly explained through a screencast . This is just a practical example of all the applications that have the use of screen recordings. Screenshots simplify complex processes and make them more understandable . We explain how to make a screencast and we give you the best tips to help you succeed with your screen recordings..
The term screencast comes from English and is made up of the words screen and cast . It could be translated as screen broadcast . A screencast is a video recording of the screen .
Screen recording or videography are synonymous with screencast . If the screen recording is transferred in real time , we will be sharing the screen ..
In a screencast we record all the content that is seen on the screen . Usually these are active programs and open documents, the file browser, and the movement of the mouse pointer. But for what purpose do we record our screen? The screencast are used mainly to produce explanatory videos . By registering the screen and the steps you take on it, you will have the possibility to support or train your colleagues at any time and place. The screencast often used to create webinars or tutorials.
Screencast : From a technical point of view, a screencast is made up of a sequence of several screenshots . Check out our article to learn how to take a screenshot in Windows..
The basic equipment for creating a screencast is a screen and a screencast platform . If you also want to expand the screen recording with an audio track or some graphic element, you will need a microphone or a graphics tablet.
To make a screencast you will need a suitable screencast program. You can choose from different applications, some of them free , that include various features and editing options. The program you choose will depend on your personal preferences and needs.
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In many cases, a screencast has an integrated audio track with additional comments and explanations. To record it, a USB microphone is enough . For these types of recordings, it is recommended to use unidirectional microphones, which record sound with greater intensity on one side and effectively hide ambient noise. The drawback of these types of microphones is that they limit the range of motion, since the quality of the recording decreases when you do not speak facing the microphone.
During recording, a graphics tablet will allow you to add notes or graphics to the screen recording. Touchscreen laptops do not require any additional peripheral devices.
If you have already opted for a screencast program and have installed it, in theory you can start recording the screen. However, it is worth some preparation before creating a screencast .
Search in advance all the necessary information for the screencast . When you have it, plan how you want the video to go and try to fulfill it as if it were a kind of script. If there are other screen recordings on the same topic as your video, consider them an encouragement to find the right content and the best structure for your screencast . If you supplement and comment on the screencast with an audio track , think well in advance what you want to say. It is up to you to write the script using an outline with keywords or write complete sentences.
Connect all external devices , like the microphone or graphic tablet. Next, we recommend that you prepare the workplace. By this we mean not only your physical desktop, but also and above all your digital desktop . Make sure that only content relevant to the viewer is visible on the screencast . Close all unnecessary programs and delete personal items such as wallpaper or files on your desktop.
Turn off all notifications . This will reduce the risk of an incoming email or pop-up window interrupting the screencast recording .
Run the screencast program and configure all the settings for the recording , such as image cropping and audio settings. Before you start recording, check for ambient noise. When you've finished adjusting the settings, start screen recording and stop when you're done.
After recording, you will have the ability to edit the screencast . The options available depend on the program you are using. In most cases, it is not even necessary to cut the video , although this feature is very useful to eliminate lapses, errors or long pauses. Some screencast applications also allow you to insert additional elements and effects . Inserting titles and credits is an especially popular feature, as it is used to frame your video.
When the videos are somewhat longer, a table of contents with links can be added . In this way, you can offer your followers the possibility to jump directly to the section that is relevant to them.
Lastly, you will need to re-straighten the video and create a final video file . Most applications offer the ability to export the file in different formats . You will know which one is more suitable for you if you are clear about your objectives and where the screencast will be published . The main distribution channels are public video platforms such as YouTube or Vimeo, learning management systems or email.
The screencasts can not be updated or modified as easily as written instructions. For this reason, it pays to prepare your content thoroughly and pay attention to a couple of simple tips to make your screen recording a sure success:
Before starting screen recording, check that your screen is not too cluttered and that it does not contain any private items . The less irrelevant content is included in the video and the clearer the background image, the more professional your screencast will appear . In addition, you will be facilitating the viewer's concentration on the relevant elements.
Before creating a screencast , you will need to define the exact subject and content . Do not forget to include in your considerations the context or who will be your target audience . Try to keep the video as short and simple as possible. Ideally, a screencast should be three to five minutes long and no longer than ten minutes. If you need more time, it is advisable to record several videos. If you don't have the possibility, integrate titles and a table of contents with links to structure the screencast .
Prepare a kind of script with the order of mouse clicks to have a firm plan and avoid mistakes or pauses.
If you are going to make several screen recordings or plan to take professional tutorials, we recommend that you establish universal parameters applicable to each of your videos. For example, keeping the length of the videos constant, the screen resolution, the personalized introductions or the layout of explanatory windows. In this way, you will be transmitting professionalism.
Avoid sudden movements of the mouse and carry out all actions clearly . Every time you have completed a section, take a break and avoid moving the mouse pointer. This makes it easier for you to post-edit work and integrate invisible cuts.
When creating a screencast , select an environment without ambient noise . If you are going to make multiple screen recordings, always use the same workplace so that the acoustic conditions are similar.
If you want to create a screencast , you have the possibility to record the entire screen or just part of it . Both options have advantages and disadvantages . If you decide to record the entire monitor, you will make sure to include the entire content. However, many times the full screen includes many irrelevant spaces. This can prevent the viewer from concentrating on the essentials. On the contrary, if you select a smaller part of the screen, you can create confusion in the viewer by moving the mouse outside the visible image.
The screencasts used in many cases the image mode within the image and also the screenshot, show the image of the webcam . This option will add a personal touch to your screen recording. During recording, you should ensure that there is good lighting and, if possible, a monochrome background.
Enable webcam recording whenever you're creating a screencast . Until you get to the editing process, you won't have to decide if you want to integrate the webcam image into the video.
Screencast software can offer a wide range of editing options . Use these options to make your video even more understandable and interesting. The mouse pointer colored to make it stand out from the background is a very popular tool. During the editing process, audio desynchronizations or entering informational texts and background music are also often fixed. In any case, less is more : use only those elements that offer the viewer added value.