Viral Hook Patterns
The 9 hook patterns our classifier scores against — with real, measured examples from videos we track. Mid-ranked on purpose: the top hooks stay in the API.
List Preview
Opens with a counted payoff so the viewer knows exactly what they'll get.
“10 YouTubers vs 2 Secret Traitors”
Real video we track · 15.8M views · mid-ranked for this pattern
Open Question
Asks a direct question that opens a curiosity gap the viewer needs closed.
“Can You Complete the Mango? 🥭 Fun Puzzle Challenge for Kids | Bimbleyboo #shorts”
Real video we track · 42.2M views · mid-ranked for this pattern
Before / After
Frames a transformation — a clear starting point and a striking result.
“Pomni and Jax from The Amazing Digital Circus are coming to Fortnite!”
Real video we track · 2.8M views · mid-ranked for this pattern
Confession
An honest admission of a mistake or truth that earns instant trust.
“I'll be honest — I wasted $10K before this finally worked”
Illustrative example
Contrarian Take
Challenges the advice everyone repeats, so the viewer stops to check.
“Don't Replace It! Fixing a Smashed XPeng P7 Without Paint!”
Real video we track · 10.2M views · mid-ranked for this pattern
Personal Story
Pulls the viewer into a first-person narrative they want to see resolved.
“I Built Minecraft's Most Advanced Civilization”
Real video we track · 7.1M views · mid-ranked for this pattern
Hard Number
Leads with a concrete, specific figure that signals real substance.
“RESIDENT EVIL – Official Trailer (4K)”
Real video we track · 7.5M views · mid-ranked for this pattern
Empathy / Relatability
Names the viewer's exact struggle so they feel seen and keep watching.
“We Found A PERSON STUCK INSIDE A BILLBOARD!! #shorts 🏠🪧”
Real video we track · 22.9M views · mid-ranked for this pattern
Bold Claim
A strong, decisive statement that demands a reaction — agree or argue.
“Ranking Best Parkour Fails😭😭”
Real video we track · 18.4M views · mid-ranked for this pattern
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Hook patterns are educational guidance — they improve your odds, they don't guarantee a viral result.