Psych2Go Topic Planning Guideline

Refer to Script Writing Guidelines here

1. Building on Existing Topics

• Goal: Ensure each new topic is a fresh extension of our existing content without being repetitive.
• Strategy: Review our video library regularly to identify trends and gaps.
• Action: Before pitching a topic, compare it with recent videos to ensure it offers a new angle or deeper insight.

2. Thorough Research

• Goal: Achieve a comprehensive understanding of the topic.
• Strategy: Dedicate 80% of the research phase to in-depth exploration.
• Action:
  • Watch existing videos on the topic from our channel and others.
  • Read articles, books, and credible online resources.
  • Interview or have discussions with experts, individuals with personal experiences, and professionals in the field.

3. Script Structure

• Goal: Address existing problems and propose expansions.
• Strategy: Structure the script to highlight a problem, current solutions, and areas needing further exploration.
• Action:
  • Identify and clearly state the problem.
  • Outline how it has been traditionally addressed.
  • Discuss what is missing and propose new insights or solutions.

4. Sustained Interest

• Goal: Ensure lasting enthusiasm for the topic.
• Strategy: Reflect on the topic’s appeal over time.
• Action:
  • After pitching, wait for 2 days.
  • Reassess your excitement and commitment to bringing the script to life.
  • If enthusiasm persists, proceed; if not, reconsider or refine the topic.

5. Presentation Format and Justification

• Goal: Choose the most effective format to present the topic.
• Strategy: Align the format with the content’s nature and audience engagement.
• Action:
  • Decide on the format: case study, personal story, listicle, etc.
  • Justify your choice based on how it will enhance understanding and engagement.
  • Example: “I chose a case study format to provide a detailed, real-life example that viewers can relate to.”

6. Resource Identification

• Goal: Gather all necessary materials and support.
• Strategy: Plan the resources needed to bring the project to life.
• Action:
  • List required resources: visuals, expert interviews, data, etc.
  • Identify potential sources for these resources.
  • Plan how to obtain and integrate them into the project.

7. Leveraging Existing and Free Resources

• Goal: Maximize efficiency and minimize costs.
• Strategy: Use available and no-cost resources effectively.
• Action:
  • Utilize free online databases and libraries.
  • Leverage social media and community forums for insights and interviews.
  • Collaborate with educational institutions or nonprofits that may have relevant data or experts willing to contribute.

Implementation Example

Topic: “What MMDA Does to Your Brain”

1. Building on Existing Topics:
   • Review recent videos on similar substances and their effects.
   • Ensure this video adds new insights specific to MMDA.
2. Thorough Research:
   • Watch existing videos about MMDA and related topics.
   • Read scientific articles, books, and credible online resources.
   • Interview neuropsychologists and individuals who have experienced MMDA’s effects.
3. Script Structure:
   • Identify the problem: Misunderstanding or lack of knowledge about MMDA’s effects.
   • Discuss current knowledge and research findings.
   • Highlight what further research or understanding is needed.
4. Sustained Interest:
   • Wait 2 days after pitching the topic.
   • Reassess enthusiasm for the project.
   • Confirm continued interest before proceeding.
5. Presentation Format and Justification:
   • Choose a mix of case studies and scientific explanations.
   • Justification: Case studies provide relatable stories, while scientific explanations offer credibility and depth.
6. Resource Identification:
   • Required: Expert interviews, scientific articles, visual aids (e.g., brain diagrams).
   • Sources: Universities, online scientific journals, stock image libraries.
7. Leveraging Existing and Free Resources:
   • Use free scientific journals and open-access papers.
   • Engage with online forums and social media groups for personal stories and insights.
   • Collaborate with psychology departments for expert interviews and data.

By following this guideline, the Psych2Go team can create engaging, informative, and well-researched content that resonates with our audience and maintains our channel’s high standards.