Growing your YouTube channel can feel overwhelming with so much advice out there. To help you navigate, we’ve compiled 50 essential tips to boost your channel’s growth quickly. Let’s dive in and explore these game-changing strategies!
Key Takeaways
- Focus your videos on one keyword or topic to attract the right audience.
- Repurpose your best-performing content to keep your channel fresh.
- Engage with your viewers to build a loyal community.
- Create a strong brand to make your channel recognizable.
- Promote your videos on social media to reach a wider audience.
1. Build Your Videos Around a Single Keyword/Topic
YouTube is the second largest search engine, right after Google. People use keywords and phrases to search for the information they need. To put it in perspective, there are more than 3 billion searches on YouTube every month. Given that 500 hours of video are uploaded every minute, the competition is fierce.
By creating videos that focus on a specific keyword or topic, you’re providing a clear signal to the YouTube algorithm, increasing your videos’ chances of getting found for the keyword most relevant to your subject matter. You probably already have a broad topic in mind, but you’ll also need to plan future content and videos around your overall channel theme.
There are both free and paid tools to help you do this, but we’ll focus on the two most powerful, which also happen to be free.
In addition to choosing the right topics, you’ll have to incorporate your chosen keywords in the video. There are several ways to do this:
2. Reuse Existing Top Performing Content
Creating great content doesn’t always mean starting from scratch. Some of your best videos can come from engaging and valuable content you already have. Think about using a social content distribution and engagement dashboard to help you keep track of key engagement metrics on YouTube.
If you’re in doubt about which video content to repurpose, let data be your guide. Take some time to research your top-performing videos. These gems are already proven hits, so why not give them a second life? You can repurpose them into YouTube Shorts, TikTok videos, or even Instagram Reels. Repurposing content saves you a bunch of time, money, and effort.
Here are some clever ways to repurpose your video content:
- Create short snippets for social media platforms.
- Turn a long video into a series of shorter, focused videos.
- Use highlights from your videos to create teasers or trailers.
- Transform video content into blog posts or articles.
Repurposing your top-performing videos is like finding hidden treasure in your own backyard. It’s already there, you just need to dig it up and polish it a bit.
Remember, the goal is to keep your content current and relevant. Pick out the latest news pertinent to your niche and discuss it in a video. This not only keeps your audience engaged but also attracts new viewers who are interested in the latest trends.
3. Engage with Your Audience
Even if your channel is new, you’re bound to get comments. Make sure you reply to all the comments. Not only does this encourage future participation from your viewers, but it also doubles your comment count!
4. Get Branded
Consistent branding is key to ensuring that people who land on your channel know who you are. Have a logo and color scheme as well as a font family. If you stylize your video with a filter or animations, those elements should also be consistent.
5. Promote Your YouTube Videos on Other Social Channels
Just like you can share your social media profiles in your YouTube videos, it’s even more powerful to share your YouTube videos on all of your social media accounts. Post your latest creations anywhere you hang out online, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Telegram, podcast show notes, etc.
You can also embed the videos on blogs and other websites where you have editor access.
6. Show Up & Stand Out
In the crowded world of YouTube, you need to bring your A-game to stand out. There’s a sea of content out there, and to make waves, you have to be unique. Think about what makes your channel special. Is it your quirky sense of humor, your deep knowledge of a niche topic, or maybe your engaging storytelling? Whatever it is, lean into it and let it shine.
One way to stand out is by focusing on quality over quantity. Don’t feel pressured to post daily unless your content is very low effort. Instead, aim for consistent, high-quality videos 1-3 times per week. This not only keeps your audience engaged but also gives you time to produce top-notch content.
Another tip is to mimic your favorite creators when starting out. This doesn’t mean copying them, but rather using their style as a foundation to find your own voice. Over time, you’ll develop a unique style that sets you apart from the rest.
Remember, the numbers on your screen represent real people. Go the extra mile to create a positive experience for your audience. This will not only help you retain viewers but also build a loyal community around your channel.
7. Post Great Thumbnails & Leverage YouTube Cards
Creating eye-catching thumbnails is like designing a book cover. When someone is browsing YouTube, your thumbnail is the first thing they see. It needs to scream, “Click me!” A great thumbnail can make or break your video’s success. Think of it as your video’s first impression. You want it to be a good one, right?
How to Create Click-Worthy Thumbnails
- Consistency is Key: Try to have a theme for all your thumbnails. This helps in building your brand and makes your videos easily recognizable.
- Use High-Quality Images: Blurry or pixelated images are a big no-no. Use clear, high-resolution images to make your thumbnails pop.
- Add Text Sparingly: A few words can make a big difference. Use bold, easy-to-read fonts to convey the main idea of your video.
- Be Creative: Don’t be afraid to use dynamic graphic elements or patterns. This can make your thumbnail stand out in a sea of videos.
Leveraging YouTube Cards
YouTube cards are interactive elements that you can add to your videos. They can direct viewers to other videos, playlists, or even external websites. Here’s how to use them effectively:
- Timing is Everything: Place cards at strategic points in your video where viewers are most likely to click on them.
- Relevant Content: Make sure the content you’re linking to is relevant to the current video. This keeps viewers engaged and on your channel longer.
- Call to Action: Use compelling calls to action to encourage viewers to click on the cards.
Remember, the goal is to keep viewers engaged and coming back for more. By using great thumbnails and YouTube cards, you can significantly boost your channel’s performance.
So, start editing YouTube videos like a pro and watch your channel grow!
8. Push for Subscriptions
Alright, let’s talk about the magic of getting those subscriptions rolling in. You know, the kind that makes your subscriber count look like it’s on steroids. Remember to demonstrate why your channel is worth subscribing to. Ask for the subscription only after you’ve provided new and useful information or made viewers laugh so hard they snort their coffee.
One of the best places to ask for the subscription is at the beginning of the video. You can say something like, “If you like this topic and want to be the first to know when I release new videos, make sure you subscribe to the channel and don’t forget to like/thumbs up this video.” This way, you’re setting the stage right from the get-go.
Another golden nugget is to add a subscribe button on your website. Let website visitors know you have a YouTube channel by adding a YouTube subscribe button where people can easily see it, like the header, sidebar, or footer of your site. The more subscribers you have, the higher your potential for lots of video views.
And don’t forget to turn viewers into subscribers by adding a subscribe button to your End Screen. Here’s a little secret: only a small fraction of viewers will make it all the way to the end of your video, but those who do are your true fans. Reward them with an easy way to subscribe.
Lastly, work on boosting your subscriber count by adding a visual reminder to subscribe at the end of every video. A simple graphic or a fun animation can do wonders. And hey, why not ask your subscribers what they want to see? Create occasional videos asking viewers what they want more of on your channel. Giving subscribers more of what they want and like is a sure way to increase views.
Don’t forget to add CTAs to your video, whether they’re verbal or written on your end screen. A CTA should remind people to subscribe, like your video, and/or turn on notifications for your videos.
9. Use Fractional Video Editing Services
Imagine having a video editor at your beck and call, but without the hefty price tag of a full-time hire. That’s the magic of fractional video editing. Simply put, fractional video editing is editing on demand. You get expert video editing tailored to your needs and budget. Instead of juggling freelancers or hiring in-house, you team up with a video editing agency. You get a dedicated editor you can build a relationship with over time.
Now, if you’re serious about growing your YouTube channel, partnering with a fractional video editing service is a game-changer. A fractional video editor can significantly boost the quality of your content, helping you stand out in the crowded YouTube space. With around 3.7 million new videos uploaded to YouTube every day, you need every advantage to shine.
Here’s a quick rundown of why fractional video editing rocks:
- Consistency: Your videos maintain a consistent style and quality, which is crucial for branding.
- Flexibility: You get a portion of your dedicated editor’s workday. Start small and scale up as needed.
- Cost-Effective: Enjoy a low-cost, flat monthly fee without the hassle of contracts.
We spent $5k testing our competitors’ video editing services, and Vidpros stands out in the crowded video editing market by offering a unique “fractional video editing” service, providing clients monthly dedicated video editor.
So, if you want to up your YouTube game, consider fractional video editing. It’s like having a secret weapon in your YouTube video editing tips arsenal.
10. Optimize Video Titles and Descriptions
When it comes to YouTube video optimization, your titles and descriptions are like the neon signs that draw viewers in. Optimize your titles and descriptions to make sure your videos get found. Here’s how you can do it effectively.
11. Create Custom Thumbnails
Creating custom thumbnails is like giving your video a flashy book cover. When someone is browsing YouTube, your thumbnail is the first thing they see. 90% of the best performing videos on YouTube have custom thumbnails. So, let’s make sure yours stand out!
First, use bright imagery that catches the eye. Think of Gary Vaynerchuk’s thumbnails—they’re bright and practically beg to be clicked on. If you’re looking for a free tool to create great thumbnails, try the PhotoDirector Essential image editing app. It’s packed with easy-to-use effects, masking, and title creation tools perfect for creating eye-catching YouTube thumbnails.
Next, pick a font and stick with it. This creates a cohesive look and builds brand recognition. Free options are available on Google Fonts. Opt for a bold font for better readability and a condensed font to fit more words in your thumbnails.
Design your thumbnails with a clear focal point to draw viewers’ eyes. Avoid overwhelming them with too many elements. Use lots of contrast. You want the colors in your thumbnail to clash as much as possible. Tiny borders between text and objects can increase this contrast.
Your thumbnail immediately conveys to someone browsing YouTube three things: Quality, Relevance, and Professionalism.
Finally, upload your custom thumbnail by selecting “upload thumbnail” on the left side of the options. Click on “custom thumbnail,” which causes a dialog box to appear. Select the file you created and you’re good to go!
12. Add End Screens and Cards
End screens and cards are like the secret sauce to keep your viewers hooked and coming back for more. Think of them as the cherry on top of your video sundae. End screens are those nifty images or clips that pop up at the end of your video, guiding your viewers on what to do next. You can ask them to subscribe, watch another video, or even check out a playlist. Cards, on the other hand, are those little pop-ups that appear during your video, suggesting other content your viewers might love.
You have a lot of options, but the best end screens tell your visitors to do three things:
- Subscribe to your channel.
- Watch a recent video.
- Watch a video that’s automatically recommended to the viewer based on their preferences.
When you’re done uploading your video into YouTube, you’ll be prompted to add an end screen. You can handpick the videos you promote here or let the algorithm do the work. Here’s a pro tip: create a template for your end screen. Once you’ve done it one time, you can keep using the same template for each video. This saves you time and keeps your branding consistent.
End screens are a golden opportunity to capture the attention of people who made it to the end of your video. These people are going to be the most engaged. They watched your entire video! Now, they need to be told what to do next.
To add a card, click on the “element” in the top left corner, and choose from a video, playlist, channel, subscription button, or link. This is especially useful if you’re part of the YouTube Partner Program. Cards can be a game-changer for keeping your audience engaged throughout the video.
So, next time you’re editing, don’t forget to sprinkle in those end screens and cards. They’re like the breadcrumbs that lead your viewers to more of your awesome content!
13. Collaborate with Other YouTubers
Collaborating with other YouTubers is like throwing a party where everyone brings their own friends. It’s a fantastic way to attract a bigger audience. Invite another YouTuber relevant to your niche or someone you’ve become close friends with as a guest on your channel. This way, you both can draw in your audiences, potentially resulting in more views.
Have you collaborated on a video with other channels or brands yet? If you choose your partners correctly, you can provide value to each other’s audience and gain exposure to a new viewer base – a true win-win. Look for creators you share a passion with for it to feel natural. Also, look for channels that aren’t direct competitors where your audiences share similar interests.
Personal Tip
I once collaborated with a fellow YouTuber who shared my love for quirky DIY projects. Not only did we have a blast creating the video, but our combined audiences loved it too! We both saw a significant increase in subscribers and engagement. So, don’t be shy—reach out and make those connections!
14. Use YouTube Analytics to Improve Content
YouTube Analytics is like your channel’s personal detective, always on the case to help you grow. This tool is packed with data that can give you insights into your channel’s performance. Head to the audience tab to see which of your videos are encouraging new viewers to come back and watch more of your content. YouTube tells you which videos are hitting the mark and which ones need a little more love.
Want to know which videos earned the most subscribers? Or where people stopped watching your videos? YouTube Analytics has got you covered. You can view reports based on specific time periods or over the life of your channel. This is one of the best YouTube growth strategies out there.
Here’s a quick list of what you can find in YouTube Analytics:
- Watch Time: See how long viewers are sticking around.
- Traffic Sources: Find out where your viewers are coming from.
- Audience Demographics: Learn about the age, gender, and location of your viewers.
- Engagement Reports: Check out likes, comments, and shares.
The more you know about your subscribers and new viewers, the better you can tailor your content to them. Use YouTube Analytics to get insight into demographics, top views, engagement, etc. At the end of your videos, ask viewers to leave a comment letting you know what they liked or didn’t like.
By continuously monitoring your YouTube engagement, you can make sure the tactics you’re using are working. This is a key part of fast YouTube channel growth. So, dive into those numbers and let the data guide you to YouTube stardom!
15. Create Playlists
Creating playlists on YouTube is like setting up a mini TV series for your viewers. If you don’t create video series or playlists, you miss an excellent opportunity to keep viewers on your channel. Playlists help to organize your content and make it easier for viewers to find what to watch next. They also allow your viewers to binge-watch and provide you with some easy ideas for what content to create next.
Imagine your viewers are like kids in a candy store. They want more of what they love, and playlists give them just that. According to the study, playlists can help increase views by up to 50%. In addition, playlists can also help improve click-through rates and engagement. This is a win-win!
The first step to making a playlist on YouTube is simple. You need to decide where you want to host the playlist. YouTube playlists are automatically hosted in your channel, making it super easy to manage. When you upload a video, you’ll have the option to create a playlist. This allows you to group related topics. Viewers will automatically be taken to the next video on your playlist without having to think about it.
Playlists can significantly increase your “Session Time”. Session Time is the amount of time someone spends on YouTube after they start watching your video. And Session Time is a ranking factor that YouTube really cares about.
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to get you started:
- Go to your YouTube Studio.
- Click on the “Playlists” tab.
- Hit the “New Playlist” button.
- Name your playlist and add a description.
- Start adding your videos!
Pro Tip: Keep relevant videos together in playlists on your channel to create viewing loops. This keeps viewers engaged and coming back for more. So, get creative and start building those playlists today!
16. Engage with Comments
Even if your channel is new, you’re bound to get comments. Make sure you reply to all the comments. Not only does this encourage future participation from your viewers, but it also doubles your comment count!
17. Use High-Quality Equipment
When it comes to YouTube, quality matters. You don’t need a Hollywood budget, but investing in some decent gear can make a world of difference. Imagine watching a video with shaky footage and muffled audio—not fun, right? Let’s dive into the essentials you need to up your game.
First off, let’s talk cameras. You don’t need to break the bank. Many successful YouTubers started with just their phone cameras. If you’re looking to upgrade, consider options like a DSLR or a GoPro. These can offer better image quality and more flexibility in shooting.
Next, audio. Trust me, viewers will forgive a slightly grainy video, but bad audio? That’s a deal-breaker. A simple USB microphone or a lapel mic can drastically improve your sound quality. No need to go all out on a studio setup—just make sure your voice is clear and crisp.
Lighting is another game-changer. Natural light is your best friend, but if you’re shooting indoors, a basic lighting kit can work wonders. Softbox lights or even a ring light can help eliminate those pesky shadows and make you look like a pro.
Don’t forget about the little things. A tripod can keep your shots steady, and some basic editing software can help you polish your videos. Remember, it’s not about having the most expensive gear; it’s about using what you have effectively.
Investing in good equipment is like giving your channel a head start. It won’t make you a star overnight, but it will set you on the right path.
So, gear up and get ready to create some amazing content!
18. Plan Your Content Calendar
Planning your content calendar is like setting up a roadmap for your YouTube channel. It helps you stay organized and ensures that your audience knows when to expect new videos. Follow the steps below to create a content calendar for a successful YouTube channel.
19. Use Catchy Intros and Outros
Your video’s intro is like a first impression—make it count! The first 15 seconds are crucial. Cut out the fluff and get straight to the point. Think of it as a movie trailer; you want to hook your audience right away. A good intro previews exactly what your video is about. No background, no fluff. This approach can significantly boost your watch time. For example, one of my videos racked up over 5.4k hours of watch time in just 30 days because of an effective intro.
Now, let’s talk about outros. An outro is your last chance to engage your audience. It’s like the end of a great book; you want to leave them wanting more. TechSmith Camtasia makes it incredibly easy to create all kinds of video elements, and it’s the perfect solution for creating YouTube outros. Follow these simple steps to make an outro that keeps viewers coming back:
- Summarize the key points of your video.
- Include a call-to-action (CTA) to encourage subscriptions or likes.
- Use end screens to promote other videos or playlists.
- Keep it short and sweet.
Remember, your intro and outro are bookends to your content. Make them memorable, and you’ll see your engagement soar.
20. Keep Videos Short and Engaging
In the fast-paced world of online content, attention spans are at an all-time low. The average adult has an online attention span of just 8 seconds. That’s an eternity compared to Gen Z, which has an estimated attention span of only 1.3 seconds when it comes to online content. So, how do you keep your viewers hooked? Keep your videos short and engaging!
A well-edited video is more engaging and can hold your viewer’s attention for longer. This is crucial to retain their interest and ensure they stick around long enough to watch to the end (and view those ads). The YouTube algorithm promotes videos with high watch time stats. Get these and it’s way more likely your video will be featured for a viewer to watch next.
Here are some tips to keep your videos short and engaging:
- Get to the point quickly: Don’t waste time with long intros. Dive right into the content.
- Use engaging visuals: Keep the screen dynamic with cuts, transitions, and animations.
- Add background music: A subtle background track can keep the energy up.
- Break it up: Use chapters or segments to make the content digestible.
- End with a bang: Leave your viewers wanting more with a strong conclusion.
Remember, your videos must provide value AND be enjoyable to watch if you want to attract views and gain subs.
By keeping your videos short and engaging, you’ll not only retain your current audience but also attract new viewers who appreciate your concise and entertaining content.
21. Use Background Music
Adding background music to your YouTube videos can make a world of difference. It sets the mood, keeps viewers engaged, and can even make your content more memorable. But, you have to be careful about copyright issues. You should start off only using copyright free music. Just search for “copyright free music” on YouTube, and you’ll find plenty of free options. YouTube even provides some free tracks in their audio library.
Using royalty free background music for video editing is another great option. It helps make your videos more immersive without the legal headaches. Let’s talk about using royalty free background music for video and give you some tracks to help make your videos more immersive.
Here’s a quick guide to get you started:
- Choose the Right Music: Make sure the music matches the tone of your video. A mismatch can be jarring and turn viewers away.
- Volume Control: Keep the background music at a level where it enhances but doesn’t overpower your voice or main content.
- Consistency: Use similar styles of music across your videos to create a cohesive brand identity.
Remember, the right background music can turn a good video into a great one. So, take your time to find the perfect tracks and watch your engagement soar!
22. Add Subtitles and Closed Captions
Adding subtitles and closed captions to your YouTube videos is a game-changer. Not only does it make your content accessible to people with hearing impairments, but it also allows viewers to watch without sound. Imagine someone sneaking a peek at your video during a boring meeting—subtitles to the rescue!
To get started, navigate to captions when uploading videos and to existing videos. Login to your YouTube Studio, select subtitles in the left navigation, and choose the video you want to add subtitles to. YouTube offers automatic transcription, but you can also enter your subtitles manually for better accuracy.
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
- Go to the YouTube video you want to add subtitles to.
- Choose a language and create your closed captions.
- Enter your subtitles.
- Alternatively, use YouTube’s automatic transcription.
Adding subtitles not only boosts accessibility but also improves your video’s SEO. More text means more keywords for YouTube to index, making your video easier to find.
So, don’t skip this step. Your audience—and your channel’s growth—will thank you.
23. Promote Videos on Your Website
Promoting your YouTube videos on your website is like giving them a VIP pass to your audience. It’s a no-brainer! You already have visitors coming to your site, so why not show them your awesome videos? Embedding your videos on your website can keep visitors engaged longer and even boost your site’s SEO. There are two ways to embed YouTube channel on your website. The first method is using a website widget. The second method is using the embed or link option. I mean, who doesn’t want a win-win?
One of the best places to do this is in your video descriptions. Not everyone bothers to read the description in a video, but those who do are true fans. You can also let your viewers know that they can find you on social media by clicking on any of the links in the video’s description.
Here’s a quick tip: Add a subscribe button on your website. Let website visitors know you have a YouTube channel by adding a YouTube subscribe button where people can easily see it, like the header, sidebar, or footer of your site. The more subscribers you have, the higher your potential for lots of video views.
Imagine this: A visitor stumbles upon your blog post, gets hooked by your engaging content, and then sees your video. Boom! You’ve just turned a casual reader into a potential subscriber.
So, don’t just stop at embedding videos. Make sure to promote them actively on your website. Use catchy titles, engaging thumbnails, and always, always ask for that subscription!
24. Use Social Media to Drive Traffic
Social media is your best friend when it comes to driving traffic to your YouTube channel. Think of it as your personal megaphone, broadcasting your content to the world. Regularly publish your YouTube content to social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. This not only increases your reach but also taps into audiences you already have.
Here’s a little secret: Instagram is a powerful social media platform for expanding your YouTube channel. Share snippets of your videos as stories or posts to create buzz and direct followers to your channel. It’s like giving them a sneak peek of the main event!
Another tip is to focus on your best sources of traffic. Are you already a hit on TikTok or Instagram? Use these platforms to drive more traffic to your YouTube channel rather than trying to draw in viewers from less-active places. It’s all about working smarter, not harder.
One of the wonderful things about social media is that you can cross-promote content on different channels. Promoting your YouTube videos on your other social channels is the easiest way to grow your audience.
Don’t forget to embed your videos on blogs and other websites where you have editor access. This not only boosts your views but also enhances your SEO. And remember, the more places your video appears, the more chances people have to see it.
So, get out there and start sharing! Your future subscribers are waiting.
25. Experiment with Different Video Formats
Trying out different video formats can be a game-changer for your YouTube channel. A/B testing on YouTube works by showing different audiences different versions of your thumbnail or metadata and determining which version got a higher click-through rate. This is a great way to see what works best for your audience.
You can experiment with formats like short-form content, such as teaser videos, product highlights, or quick how-to guides. This variety can appeal to different segments of your audience and keep them engaged. For example, you might find that your audience loves quick how-to guides but isn’t as interested in longer, in-depth tutorials.
Don’t be afraid to mix things up! Sometimes, the most unexpected formats can become your most popular content.
Here are some formats you can try:
- Shorts: These are quick, engaging videos that are perfect for capturing attention in a short amount of time.
- Long-form videos: These allow you to dive deep into a topic and provide more value to your viewers.
- Live streams: Great for real-time interaction with your audience and building a community.
- Vlogs: Personal and relatable, vlogs can help you connect with your audience on a deeper level.
Remember, the key is to keep experimenting and see what resonates with your audience. You don’t need to show your face to be successful, especially in gaming. So, get creative and have fun with it!
Conclusion
Growing your YouTube channel can seem like a big task, but with the right tips and tricks, you can make it happen faster than you think. By using these 50 video editing tips, you’ll be able to create better content that grabs attention and keeps viewers coming back for more. Remember, consistency is key, and always keep learning and experimenting with new ideas. So, get out there, start editing, and watch your channel grow!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I grow my YouTube channel quickly?
To grow your YouTube channel quickly, focus on creating high-quality content, engaging with your audience, and promoting your videos on social media. Also, optimize your video titles and descriptions with relevant keywords.
What is the best way to engage with my audience?
The best way to engage with your audience is by responding to comments, asking for feedback, and creating content that addresses their interests and questions.
Why are thumbnails important for YouTube videos?
Thumbnails are important because they are the first thing viewers see. A catchy thumbnail can grab attention and encourage people to click on your video.
How often should I post new videos on my YouTube channel?
Consistency is key. Try to post new videos at least once a week to keep your audience engaged and attract new viewers.
What equipment do I need for high-quality YouTube videos?
For high-quality YouTube videos, you need a good camera, a microphone, and proper lighting. You don’t need the most expensive gear, but make sure your equipment provides clear video and audio.
How can I use YouTube analytics to improve my content?
YouTube analytics can help you understand what type of content your audience likes, how long they watch your videos, and where they drop off. Use this information to improve your future videos.
What are YouTube cards and end screens?
YouTube cards and end screens are tools that you can add to your videos to promote other content, encourage subscriptions, or direct viewers to your website.
Should I collaborate with other YouTubers?
Yes, collaborating with other YouTubers can help you reach a wider audience and gain new subscribers. It’s a great way to share audiences and grow your channel.
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