If you’re uploading videos to YouTube in 2025, you’re doing it wrong. Well, at least you might be. The platform has evolved dramatically over the past decade, and what worked in 2015 won’t cut it today. I’ve been in the YouTube game for over 10 years, and I’ve seen firsthand how the algorithm has shifted. In this article, I’ll break down the exact steps you need to take to ensure your videos get the views (and the revenue) they deserve. And yes, I’ll be referencing Belmont’s video as a guide, but trust me, I’m adding my own spin, insights, and 2025 hacks that Belmont didn’t even mention. Let’s dive in.
The YouTube Evolution: Why 2025 is a Whole New Ball Game
Back in 2015, YouTube was simpler. You could upload a video, slap on a catchy title, and call it a day. Fast forward to 2025, and the platform is a sophisticated beast. The AI analyzes every aspect of your video, from the audio to the visuals, to determine who to show it to. Belmont, who’s been crushing it on YouTube for years, uses examples from his own channel to show what works. One of his videos has 18 million views and earned him nearly $70,000. That’s the kind of success we’re aiming for.
The Title: Your Video’s First Impression
Let’s start with the most critical part of your upload: the title. If you’re a new channel, your title is everything. Belmont emphasizes this, and I can’t agree more. When YouTube doesn’t have much data on your channel, your title is how it understands what your video is about. Make it long, descriptive, and packed with keywords. For example, Belmont’s title “YouTube Not Recommending Your Videos? Turn This Setting On” is a masterclass in clarity and curiosity. It tells YouTube exactly what the video is about and entices viewers to click.
But here’s where I’ll add my take: don’t just stuff keywords in there. Craft a title that tells a story. Think of it like a headline in a newspaper. It needs to grab attention while clearly conveying what the video is about. And if you’re looking for tools to help you with this, check out these YouTube tools on Amazon that Belmont uses to optimize his titles.
The Description: More Than Just Metadata
In 2025, YouTube’s AI is so advanced that it can analyze your entire video, so you don’t need to stuff your description with keywords like you used to. But that doesn’t mean you should ignore it. Belmont’s approach is spot on: the first line of your description is prime real estate. Use it wisely. Instead of repeating the title, Belmont uses it to promote his YouTube Bible, where he teaches others how to grow their channels.
Here’s my advice: think of your description as a mini-blog post. Use it to provide value, whether that’s by linking to resources, summarizing the video, or teasing what’s coming next. And don’t forget to include a few relevant keywords lower down. It can’t hurt, and it might help your video rank.
The Thumbnail: Your Secret Weapon
Belmont talks about the importance of thumbnail tests, and this is a game-changer. YouTube now lets you test up to three different thumbnails to see which one performs best. This is a feature that didn’t exist back in 2015, and if you’re not using it, you’re leaving views on the table. Belmont’s winning thumbnail for one of his videos was a simple POV of his facecam. But here’s where I’ll add my two cents: don’t just rely on tests. Use thumbnails that evoke emotion. Whether it’s joy, fear, or curiosity, your thumbnail should make viewers feel something.
Playlists: The Secret to Keeping Viewers Engaged
Adding your video to a playlist is a tactic Belmont swears by, and here’s why: it keeps viewers on your channel. When someone watches a video from your playlist, the suggested videos on the right-hand side will all be yours. This means viewers are more likely to click on another one of your videos instead of bouncing off to someone else’s content. It’s a simple trick, but it can drastically increase your watch time and overall views.
Tags and Categories: Don’t Overthink It
Belmont uses tools like Vid IQ to find high-volume tags for his videos, and while tags aren’t as crucial as they used to be, they still matter. My advice? Use a mix of broad and specific tags. And when it comes to categories, don’t just default to “People & Blogs.” Look at what successful channels in your niche are using. For reaction videos, “Entertainment” might be the way to go. For tutorials or how-tos, “Education” could be a better fit.
End Screens: The Unsung Hero of YouTube Views
End screens account for almost 30% of your views, so don’t ignore them. Belmont recommends keeping it simple: just one video, as big as possible, and placed where it won’t block anything important. This increases your click-through rate and keeps viewers watching your content.
Monetization: How to Make the Most Money
If your video is over 8 minutes long, you should be using midroll ads. Belmont’s sweet spot is every 2 minutes, and here’s why: not every viewer will see every ad. By placing them throughout the video, you increase your chances of earning more revenue. But don’t go overboard—too many ads can annoy viewers and drive them away.
Final Thoughts: The Future of YouTube
YouTube in 2025 is a different beast, and if you’re not adapting, you’re falling behind. Belmont’s video is a great starting point, but don’t stop there. Experiment, test, and refine your strategy. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to take risks. The best YouTubers are the ones who innovate, not the ones who follow the crowd.
Thought-Provoking Questions
- What’s the one thing holding your YouTube channel back from reaching its full potential?
- Have you tried thumbnail testing? If so, what were the results?
- How do you feel about using AI tools like Vid IQ to optimize your videos?
Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments below. And if you’re ready to take your YouTube game to the next level, join the iNthacity community and become a permanent resident of the Shining City on the Web. Like, share, and let’s grow together!
Wait! There's more...check out our gripping short story that continues the journey: The Silent War of Kael Veyd
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