Getting a new YouTube channel to the point where it can realistically make money starts with the basics: a clear setup and content people actually want to watch. For the monetization requirements and payout mechanics themselves, see our guide on how to start earning from YouTube — this post focuses on what comes before that: setting up your channel well and making content worth watching.
Set Up Your Channel Properly From the Start
- Sign in to YouTube with a Google account and select Create a channel.
- Choose a clear, memorable channel name related to your topic.
- Add a profile picture (800×800px) and a channel banner.
- Write a channel description that tells new visitors exactly what to expect.
Upload With a Plan, Not Randomly
Add a clear, specific title and description to every upload, and use tags and on-screen text sparingly — they help YouTube understand your content but don’t substitute for the video actually delivering on its title.
What Actually Keeps People Watching
Content that feels personal and specific — showing your own process, opinions, or hands-on experience — tends to outperform generic, impersonal content covering the same topic. A cooking video that shows genuine technique and reacts to how something turns out holds attention better than a flat recitation of a recipe.
Use Google Analytics Alongside YouTube’s Own Insights
If you also run a website tied to your channel, linking it to Google Analytics can show how YouTube traffic behaves once it leaves the platform — useful alongside YouTube Studio’s own Insights (formerly Analytics) tab, which remains the primary source for video-level performance.
FAQ
What image size should I use for my profile picture?
800×800 pixels.
Do tags matter more than a good title?
No, tags help categorize content but never substitute for a title that accurately delivers on its promise.