How to Make Channel on YouTube and Earn Money | A Complete Guide

Creating a YouTube channel and turning it into a source of income is an exciting journey. With the right approach, dedication, and understanding of the platform’s dynamics as of 2025, you can build a successful channel. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you have a solid foundation to start and grow your YouTube presence. Let’s cover how to make channel on YouTube and earn money.​

YouTube has evolved into a global powerhouse, boasting over 2 billion monthly active users. It’s not just a platform for entertainment; it’s a space where creators share knowledge, showcase talents, and build communities. The potential for earning is significant, with avenues ranging from ad revenue to merchandise sales.​

However, success on YouTube isn’t solely about uploading videos; it’s about creating engaging content that resonates with viewers. This guide is tailored for young readers and beginners, breaking down the process into manageable steps.​

1. Understanding YouTube and Its Opportunities

What is YouTube?

YouTube is a video-sharing platform where users can upload, view, and interact with videos. From tutorials and vlogs to music videos and documentaries, the content spectrum is vast.​

Building Communities Through Videos

Creators have the opportunity to build communities around their content. By consistently delivering value, engaging with viewers, and fostering discussions, you can cultivate a loyal subscriber base.​

Success Stories

• MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson): Starting with simple videos, MrBeast has built a multifaceted business empire called Beast Industries, which generated $473 million in revenue in 2024—a 114% increase from 2023—with projections of $899 million in 2025.

• Rick Shiels: A former teaching pro from Bolton, Rick Shiels has become England’s most popular golfer through his YouTube channel, which has nearly three million subscribers and over one billion views. 

2. Setting Up Your YouTube Channel

a. Creating a Google Account

A Google account is essential for accessing YouTube’s features.​

1. Visit the Google Account Creation Page: Navigate to accounts.google.com/signup.​

2. Fill in Your Details: Provide your first and last name. Choose a unique email address or create a new Gmail address.​

3. Set a Secure Password: Ensure your password is strong, combining letters, numbers, and symbols.​

4. Verify Your Account: Google may require phone verification to secure your account.​

5. Complete Profile Information: Add recovery options and agree to Google’s terms.​

b. Setting Up Your Channel

1. Access YouTube: Go to YouTube.com and sign in with your Google account.​

2. Initiate Channel Creation: Click on your profile picture in the top right corner and select “Create a Channel.”​

3. Choose a Channel Name: Select a name that reflects your content and is memorable.​

4. Customize Your Channel:

   • Profile Picture: Use a clear image, preferably a logo or a professional photo.​

   • Banner Image: Design a banner that represents your brand and adheres to YouTube’s dimensions (2560 x 1440 pixels).​

   • About Section: Write a compelling description outlining what viewers can expect from your channel.​

c. Understanding YouTube’s Community Guidelines

Familiarize yourself with YouTube’s Community Guidelines. Adhering to these ensures your content remains appropriate and reduces the risk of penalties.​

3. Planning Your Content

Choosing a Niche

Identify a subject you’re passionate about and knowledgeable in. This focus will help you create consistent and authentic content.​

Understanding Your Target Audience

Research who would be interested in your content. Consider factors like age, interests, and viewing habits.​

Brainstorming Video Ideas

Generate a list of potential video topics. Look at trending subjects within your niche and consider how you can provide unique value or perspectives.

See also: Seven Ideas to Increase Your Effectiveness as a Leader at Work​

4. Creating Engaging Videos

a. Equipment Basics

• Camera: While professional cameras offer high quality, modern smartphones can also produce excellent videos.​

• Microphone: Clear audio is crucial. Invest in an external microphone for better sound quality.​

• Lighting: Natural light is beneficial, but affordable lighting kits can enhance video clarity.​

b. Filming Your First Video

• Preparation: Outline your video’s structure to stay on topic.​

• Presentation: Speak, maintain eye contact with the camera, and be yourself.​

• Background: Ensure your filming environment is tidy and free from distractions.​

c. Editing Your Video

• Software Options: Tools like DaVinci Resolve and HitFilm Express offer robust free editing capabilities.​

• Enhancements: Incorporate background music, text overlays, and transitions to make your video more engaging.​

5. Uploading and Optimizing Videos

a. Uploading to YouTube

1. Access the Upload Feature: Click on the camera icon with a “+” sign labeled “Create” and select “Upload Video.”​

2. Select Your Video File: Choose the edited video from your device.

3. Set Privacy Settings: Decide if the video is Public, Unlisted, or Private.

b. Writing Catchy Titles and Descriptions

Your title and description help people know what your video is about — and help YouTube understand it too!

• Keep it Simple: Use clear and simple words like “How to Draw a Cartoon Dog” or “Easy Pancake Recipe for Kids.”

• Make it Interesting: Add a bit of curiosity like “You won’t Believe This Magic Trick!”

• Description Tip: In the description, write a summary of the video. Add links if you want, like your social media or even other videos.

c. Creating Eye-Catching Thumbnails

A thumbnail is the small picture people see before clicking on your video. A good thumbnail can get more clicks.

• Use Bright Colors: It grab attention.

• Add Text: Short words like “FUN CHALLENGE” or “DIY GIFT IDEA.”

• Show Your Face: If you’re in the video, a smiling face works great!

d. Using Tags and Keywords

Tags help YouTube know what your video is about and show it to the right people.

• Use words like:

  • How to make a YouTube channel and make money

  • How do we earn money from YouTube

You can add these while uploading the video under the “Tags” section.

How Do Bloggers Make Money from Blogging | A Complete Guide

6. Growing Your Audience

a. Consistency is Key

Don’t disappear for weeks! Upload regularly.

• Choose a Schedule: Like “New video every Friday.”

• Stick to It: Your viewers will know when to come back for more.

b. Engaging with Viewers

Talk to your fans! Make them feel like part of your channel.

• Reply to Comments: Say thank you or answer their questions.

• Ask for Feedback: Like “What video should I make next?”

c. Collaborating with Others

Team up with other creators!

• Find Friends with Channels: You can both appear in each other’s videos.

• New People Find You: Their fans might become your fans too.

d. Promoting Your Channel

Let more people know you exist!

• Share on Social Media: Post your videos on Instagram, Facebook, or WhatsApp.

• Tell Your Friends and Family: Ask them to share your videos.

7. Understanding YouTube Monetization

a. What is Monetization?

Monetization means making money from your videos. Once your channel grows, YouTube lets you earn through ads, memberships, and more.

b. YouTube Partner Program (YPP)

To start earning money directly from YouTube, you need to join the YPP.

2025 Requirements:

• 500 subscribers

• 3 public video uploads in the last 90 days

• Either:

  • 3,000 watch hours in the past 12 months, or

  • 3 million Shorts views in the last 90 days

Benefits of YPP:

• Earn money through ads on your videos

• Use YouTube’s Super Chats and Super Stickers

• Channel memberships (fans pay monthly to support you)

• Access to more features and support

c. Other Ways to Earn Money

Even without YPP, you can still earn:

• Merchandise Sales: Sell T-shirts, mugs, or your own designs.

• Affiliate Links: Promote products and earn a small amount for each sale.

• Sponsorships: Brands may pay you to mention their product.

How to Start a Business with Low Investment

8. Keeping Your Channel Safe and Fun

Safety is super important when you’re online.

• Don’t Share Personal Info: Never share your full name, address, phone number, or school.

• Be Kind: Say nice things and treat others with respect in the comments.

• Block Trolls: If someone says something mean, block or report them. Don’t argue back.

9. Learning from Successful YouTubers

Let’s look at some young creators who made it big:

• Ryan’s World: He started as a toy reviewer and became a YouTube superstar!

• Kayla from FunWithKayla: She began with DIY crafts and now has millions of views.

What can we learn?

• Start with what you love.

• Don’t worry about being perfect.

• Keep learning and improving.

10. Conclusion

Starting a YouTube channel is fun, exciting, and full of learning. It takes time, effort, and patience to grow, but if you enjoy the journey, everything else will follow.

Remember:

• Pick something you love.

• Be kind and safe.

• Keep uploading and having fun!

Your channel could be the next big thing!