Excessive mouse movement and erratic scrolling
These are common mistakes that can distract and even annoy viewers.
Let's break down the pros and cons of both dynamic screen recordings and static screenshots,
along with some practical suggestions.
Dynamic Screen Recordings (With Mouse Movements)
Pros:
- Show the software or website in real time, providing a more authentic experience.
- More engaging when done smoothly and intentionally.
Cons:
- Can become chaotic with unnecessary movements.
- Fast scrolling and jittery cursor movements can frustrate viewers.
Tips for Improvement:
- Plan Mouse Movements: Know in advance where you'll click or point to guide the audience intentionally.
- Slow Scrolling: Use your scroll wheel gently and pause before clicking to let viewers process the information.
- Cursor Highlighter: Use a subtle cursor highlighter for visibility without being too flashy.
- Post-Recording Cleanup: Trim or slow down scrolling during editing if needed.
- Use Keyboard Navigation: Jump sections using keyboard shortcuts instead of scrolling manually.
Static Screenshots Presentation
Pros:
- Completely eliminates distracting mouse movement and scrolling.
- More precise and easier to annotate or highlight key areas.
- Great for clean, structured storytelling.
Cons:
- Less dynamic and potentially boring if not presented creatively.
- Time-consuming to capture and edit each step.
Tips for a Good Static Presentation:
- Zoom and Pan Effects: Add movement through animations to make static images feel dynamic.
- Annotations: Use arrows, text overlays, and highlights to direct attention.
- Voiceover: Maintain an engaging tone to keep viewers interested.
- Storyboard First: Plan the sequence carefully to cover all key points logically.
Hybrid Approach Recommendation
Use a mix of static screenshots and screen recordings:
- Static Screenshots: For complex interfaces or content requiring detailed explanations.
- Dynamic Recordings: For smooth navigations or demonstrations where real-time interaction adds value.