ApeClip is designed so anyone can create short-form videos without understanding AI, video editing, or production.
You select a template.
You describe what is happening.
ApeClip generates the clip.
This guide explains how to use ApeClip correctly and how to avoid the most common mistakes that reduce quality.
How ApeClip Works
Each template in ApeClip already defines how the video behaves.
That includes:
- how the video starts
- how it progresses
- how it finishes
You do not need to design or control these aspects.
Your input is used to understand the situation of the clip, not its structure.
Step 1 — Choose the Correct Template
Templates are based on content format, not visual effects.
Choose the template that matches the type of content you want to create:
-
Vlog
One person speaking directly to the viewer. -
Podcast
A conversation or discussion between characters. -
CCTV
Fixed camera perspective, observational, unexpected events. -
UGC
Casual creator-style content, often involving a product or personal opinion.
Once the template is selected, do not restate or redefine its behavior in your prompt.
Step 2 — Write the Prompt Correctly
Your prompt should clearly describe what is happening in the scene.
A correct prompt answers three questions:
- Who is involved?
- Where does it take place?
- What is happening or being said?
Avoid instructions, directions, or explanations about video production.
Examples of Clear Prompts
✅ Clear and effective
A person talking to the camera about why their first business failed and what they learned from it
❌ Ineffective
Create a highly engaging video with strong hooks, emotional pacing, and cinematic quality
Why the second example fails:
- It does not describe a scene
- It gives abstract instructions instead of concrete context
Including Dialogue
If your clip includes speech, write it naturally as part of the description.
No formatting or labels are required.
✅ Correct
A person talking to the camera saying they underestimated how long things take to work
❌ Incorrect
Dialogue: motivational message delivered with confidence
Describe the moment, not the delivery method.
Using Images
You may upload one or more images with your prompt.
You do not need to explain how the images should be used.
ApeClip automatically interprets images as follows:
- A face image → that person becomes the main subject
- A product image → someone will hold or use the product
- A clothing image → someone will wear the clothing
- Multiple images → combined into a single coherent scene
✅ Correct
Me talking to the camera about why I created this product
❌ Incorrect
Use my image with permission and apply it accurately
Do not include permissions, consent statements, or usage instructions.
Creative and Fictional Content
ApeClip supports fictional, exaggerated, or unconventional ideas.
This includes:
- animals behaving like humans
- fictional characters
- unrealistic or humorous situations
You may describe these scenarios normally.
✨ Valid
A monkey hosting a serious podcast discussion about discipline and productivity
✨ Valid
A dog acting like a startup founder explaining a new app
No explanation or justification is required.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Writing instructions instead of descriptions
❌ Mentioning cameras, lenses, shots, or editing
❌ Trying to control pacing, hooks, or endings
❌ Explaining what the template should do
❌ Combining multiple unrelated ideas in one prompt
What Consistently Works Well
✅ One clear situation
✅ Simple, direct language
✅ One main idea per clip
✅ Letting the template define structure
How to Think When Writing a Prompt
You are not instructing a system.
You are describing a scene.
If someone reading your prompt could easily imagine what is happening, it is written correctly.
Final Check Before Generating
✅ Correct template selected
✅ Scene is easy to understand
✅ No technical or production language
✅ Prompt describes what is happening
If all are true, you are ready to generate.
Final Note
ApeClip is built to work with simple, clear input.
You do not need experience, background knowledge, or technical skills.
Clear descriptions produce clear results.