Hook Anatomy

A hook is the first 1-3 seconds of video (or first line of text) that creates a reason to keep consuming. It's not a summary. Not an introduction. A hook opens a loop the viewer needs closed.

Hook Patterns

These are structural patterns, not templates to copy verbatim.

Curiosity gap — implies knowledge the viewer doesn't have. "I found out why..." / "Nobody talks about this part." Works because humans are wired to close information gaps.

Pattern interrupt — visual or verbal surprise that breaks scroll autopilot. An unexpected image, a jarring first word, a scene that doesn't immediately make sense. The viewer stops to figure out what they're looking at.

Identity call-out — "If you're a [specific identity]..." Instant relevance filter. People who identify will stay; others scroll. High retention rate because the audience self-selects.

Contrarian take — "Unpopular opinion..." / challenges something the audience believes. Creates tension that needs resolution. Works best when the take is genuinely surprising, not just inflammatory.

Transformation tease — before/after implied. "I tried X for 30 days." The viewer needs to see the result. The bigger the implied gap between before and after, the stronger the hook.

Story drop — starts in the middle of action. "So there I was, standing in my boss's office, holding a pineapple." Context is missing and the viewer needs it.