How to Upload Video on YouTube

Uploading a video to YouTube is simple, but if you’re new to the platform, you might not know where to start. Whether you’re using a mobile phone or a computer, this detailed guide will walk you through every step — from selecting your video file to publishing it successfully.

In this complete tutorial, you’ll learn:

  • What you need before uploading

  • How to upload a video on mobile

  • How to upload a video on a desktop

  • How to write a good title and description

  • How to add thumbnails and tags

  • How to choose privacy settings

  • How to schedule videos

  • Common mistakes to avoid

Let’s begin.

What You Need Before Uploading a Video

Before you upload your video, make sure you have:

  • A YouTube channel

  • A Google account

  • A video file ready (MP4 recommended)

  • A good title and description idea

  • Stable internet connection

If you don’t have a channel yet, create one first. Uploading is only possible after your channel is set up.

Uploading from your phone is quick and convenient.

Step 1: Open the YouTube App

Launch the YouTube app on your phone.

Make sure you are signed in to your channel account.

Step 2: Tap the Create (+) Button

Then tap:

Upload a video

Step 3: Select Your Video

Choose the video from your phone gallery.

You can trim the video if needed.

Tap Next.

Step 4: Add Video Details

Now enter:

  • Title

  • Description

  • Location (optional)

Make your title clear and searchable.

Example:

Step 5: Choose Audience

Select:

  • Yes, it’s made for kids

  • No, it’s not made for kids

Choose correctly based on your content.

Step 6: Set Privacy Settings

Choose one:

  • Public (anyone can watch)

  • Unlisted (only people withthe  link can watch)

  • Private (only you can watch)

Step 7: Tap Upload

Your video will begin uploading.

Wait until the upload reaches 100%.

Done.

How to Upload a Video on YouTube Using a Desktop (Computer)

Uploading from a desktop gives you more options and control.

Step 1: Go to the YouTube Website

Open:
youtube.com

Sign in to your account.

Step 2: Click the Create Button

Click the camera icon with a + sign at the top-right corner.

Select:

Upload video

Step 3: Select Video File

Click:

Select Files

Choose your video from your computer.

Upload begins immediately.

Step 4: Add Video Title

Write a clear, searchable title.

Tips:

  • Keep it simple

  • Include keywords

  • Avoid clickbait

Step 5: Write Description

Add:

  • Explanation of the video

  • Important links

  • Social media

  • Keywords

Descriptions help your video rank better.

Step 6: Upload Thumbnail

Click:

Upload Thumbnail

Recommended size:
1280 x 720 pixels

Good thumbnails increase clicks.

Step 7: Add to Playlist (Optional)

You can add the video to a playlist if relevant.

Step 8: Audience Settings

Select if the video is made for kids or not.

Step 9: More Options (Advanced)

You can add:

  • Tags

  • Category

  • Language

  • Recording date

Tags help YouTube understand your content.

Step 10: Choose Visibility

Choose:

  • Public

  • Unlisted

  • Private

  • Schedule (set future date)

If scheduling, select the date and time.

Step 11: Click Publish

Your video is now live.

Best Video Format for YouTube

YouTube supports many formats, but the best one is:

  • MP4

  • H.264 codec

  • 1080p resolution

  • 16:9 aspect ratio

This ensures the best quality.

How Long Does Upload Take?

Upload time depends on:

  • Video size

  • Internet speed

  • Video quality

Large 4K videos take longer.

After upload, YouTube processes HD quality.

How to Edit Video After Uploading

You can edit:

  • Title

  • Description

  • Thumbnail

  • Tags

Go to:

Changes save automatically.

How to Upload YouTube Shorts

If your video is:

  • Under 60 seconds

  • Vertical format (9:16)

You can upload it as a Short.

Just upload normally — YouTube detects it as a Short.

Common Upload Problems and Fixes

Upload Stuck

Fix:

  • Check internet

  • Refresh page

  • Restart browser

Video Processing Slow

Fix:

  • Wait patiently

  • Avoid closing the browser

Copyright Claim

Fix:

  • Use copyright-free music

  • Remove copyrighted content

Custom Thumbnail Not Available

Fix:

  • Verify your channel with your phone number

Tips for Better Upload Results

  • Use strong titles

  • Create attractive thumbnails

  • Keep good audio quality

  • Add subtitles

  • Use relevant keywords

  • Post consistently

Consistency improves growth.

Privacy Settings Explained

Public:
Anyone can watch.

Unlisted:
Only people with a link can watch.

Private:
Only you can watch.

Schedule:
Auto-publish at chosen time.

Can You Upload Multiple Videos?

Yes.

You can upload multiple videos daily.

There is no strict limit for normal users.

Is Uploading on YouTube Free?

Yes.

Uploading videos on YouTube is completely free.

You only need:

  • Google account

  • Internet

  • Content

Quick Summary

To upload a video on YouTube:

Mobile:
YouTube app → + → Upload → Add details → Publish

Desktop:
YouTube.com → Create → Upload → Add title → Publish

Final Thoughts

Uploading a video on YouTube is easy once you understand the process. Whether you’re a beginner or starting a serious content journey, mastering the upload process is your first step toward growth.

Focus on:

  • Clear titles

  • Good thumbnails

  • Quality content

  • Consistency

Now that you know how to upload a video on YouTube, go ahead and publish your next video with confidence.

Latest Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *