Capturing and holding your audience’s attention can be a challenge—sketch videos offer a creative, compelling way to simplify complex messages and keep viewers engaged from start to finish.
But what exactly is a sketch video, and how is it different from a traditional explainer video? Let’s break it down.
What Are Sketch Videos?
Sketch videos, also known as whiteboard animations or hand-drawn explainer videos, are a type of animated content where illustrations are drawn in real time, often by a visible hand, while a voiceover narrates the story. These videos simulate the experience of watching someone sketch ideas as they explain them, mimicking how people naturally process visual information.
They are particularly effective for:
- Explaining abstract or complex topics
- Teaching step-by-step processes
- Communicating big-picture ideas in an accessible way
Explore our portfolio of sketch videos to see real examples in action.
Key Features of Hand-Drawn Explainer Videos
- Hand-drawn style: Often black-and-white with limited colour to keep the visuals clean and focused.
- Real-time drawing: Watching the sketch unfold engages attention and improves memory retention.
- Simple, visual storytelling: Clear visuals that complement and clarify the message.
- Voiceover-driven: A narrator guides the audience while the visuals enhance understanding.
How Sketch Videos Differ from Traditional Explainer Videos
| Feature | Sketch Videos | Traditional Explainer Videos |
|---|---|---|
| Visual Style | Hand-drawn, minimal colour | Full-colour, stylised graphics or 3D animation |
| Animation Technique | Simulated real-time drawing | Motion graphics or advanced animation |
| Tone and Feel | Approachable, human | Polished, sometimes corporate |
| Production Speed | Typically faster | Longer due to complex production steps |
| Engagement Level | High—viewers are drawn into the drawing process | High if visually dynamic |
When Should You Use Illustrated Videos?
Sketch videos are ideal when you need to:
- Educate an audience without overwhelming them: Whiteboard animation videos help convey important information in a clear and digestible way. By combining simple visuals with a carefully crafted script, they guide viewers through new concepts without relying on jargon or dense text—making learning feel effortless.
- Simplify a complex idea or process: Whether it’s a government policy, a healthcare initiative, or a step-by-step workflow, sketch videos break down intricate topics. The visual storytelling format makes abstract or technical content easier to understand, remember, and share.
- Create an emotional connection through storytelling: Sketch videos are uniquely suited but not limited to telling human stories. The hand-drawn style adds warmth and relatability, helping to build trust and emotional resonance with your audience—especially when dealing with sensitive or impactful subjects.
- Introduce services or policies in an engaging format: Instead of lengthy documents or dry presentations, sketch videos offer a compelling way to explain new services, programs, or policies. They capture attention quickly and hold it, helping audiences understand what’s available, why it matters, and what action to take.
Organisations in sectors such as education, healthcare, and government often rely on sketch videos to break down complex topics, boost engagement, and raise public awareness. One powerful example is the child safety explainer video we created for the City of Casey. This video uses simple visuals and clear messaging to help community members understand how to recognise and report signs of child abuse—an important message delivered in an accessible, engaging format.
The Science Behind the Sketch
According to Dual Coding Theory, posited over 40 years ago by Canadian researcher Allan Paivio, combining visuals with verbal information enhances learning and retention. A sketch video taps into this by synchronising imagery, narration, and movement in a way that aligns with how our brains process content. The result? Viewers understand and remember more, in less time.
Sketch videos are more than just a stylistic choice—they’re a smart, strategic communication tool. Whether you’re a communicator, educator, or brand strategist, a well-crafted sketch video can be the key to turning complex messages into clear, engaging stories.
Ready to create your own? Get in touch with us to discuss your next sketch video project.