If you’re a UGC creator, you need more than just a good camera and a catchy script—you need strategy. Brands aren’t just looking for aesthetically pleasing content; they want videos that convert.
That means understanding the different types of UGC videos and when to use them.
From problem-solving hooks to trend-driven content, let’s break down the 7 key UGC video types you should master.
1. Problem/Solution
This is the OG of UGC ads and arguably the most effective.
The format is simple: present a relatable problem, highlight the frustration, and introduce the product as the perfect solution. This style follows the classic direct-response formula, making it one of the most reliable UGC styles for brands running paid ads.
Structure:
✅ Introduce the problem (hook)
✅ Agitate the problem (why it’s frustrating)
✅ Introduce the product as the solution
✅ Highlight key benefits
✅ Call-to-action (CTA)
2. Feature-Point-Out Ad
This is all about showcasing the best features of a product in a way that resonates with the audience. Think ‘TikTok Made Me Buy It’ style videos that introduce the product and quickly run through its benefits.
To make this effective, don’t just list features — connect them to real-life benefits. Brands love these because they get straight to the point.
Structure:
✅ Show the product in action
✅ Highlight 3-5 key features
✅ Explain how those features solve a problem
✅ Call-to-action (CTA)
Example: “This planner isn’t just pretty—it’s designed with time-blocking sections, daily affirmations, and a built-in habit tracker to actually keep you organised.”
3. Listicle Style UGC
Think ‘3 Reasons Why You Need This’…. List style UGC videos perform incredibly well, especially if the hook is strong.
These are fun to create because they allow you to play around with different angles and tones. Brands love them because they pack multiple selling points into one video.
Structure:
✅ Attention-grabbing hook
✅ Numbered list of reasons/benefits
✅ Supporting visuals for each point
✅ Call-to-action (CTA)
Example: “3 reasons why this water bottle is better than your old one: 1) Keeps drinks cold for 24 hours. 2) Has a built-in filter. 3) Fits perfectly in any cup holder.”
4. Tutorial/How-To
People love to learn, and brands love educational content that doesn’t feel like an ad. This style works especially well in beauty, skincare, fitness, and tech.
The key? Keep it natural. The less it looks like an ad, the better it will perform.
Structure:
✅ Introduce what you’re teaching
✅ Show a step-by-step process
✅ Highlight key product benefits
✅ Call-to-action (CTA)
Example: “Here’s how to get the perfect dewy makeup look using just 3 products.”
5. Before/After
This is one of the most persuasive types of UGC. The ‘before’ stage presents a relatable problem or struggle, and the ‘after’ showcases the product’s results.
⚠️ Important: Be mindful of industry regulations — you can’t use this format for weight loss or cosmetic procedures.
Structure:
✅ Show the ‘before’ scenario (problem)
✅ Show the transition (using the product)
✅ Reveal the ‘after’ results
✅ Call-to-action (CTA)
Example: “Before: My hair was always frizzy and dry. After: This hair mask gave me salon-smooth results in just 10 minutes.”
6. Green Screen Ad
This isn’t so much a format, but a treatment that can be applied to multiple styles, especially problem/solution or listicles. Green screen effects are great for tech brands or content that needs social proof (like showing Amazon reviews or trust pilot ratings).
Structure:
✅ Start with a green screen hook (screenshot of a review, website, or trending post)
✅ Introduce the product
✅ Highlight features/benefits
✅ Call-to-action (CTA)
Example: [Shows screenshot of a viral tweet about bad sleep habits] “If this is you, you NEED to try this weighted blanket.”
7. UGC Mash Up
Mash-ups combine clips from multiple creators into one ad. While you likely won’t be the one editing the final piece, you can contribute raw footage and voiceovers that fit seamlessly into this format.
Brands love this because it adds credibility—it’s social proof at scale.
Structure:
✅ Multiple creators showcasing the product
✅ Voiceover (often following problem/solution format)
✅ Fast-paced edits to keep engagement high
✅ Call-to-action (CTA)
Example: “See why thousands of people are switching to this all-natural cleaning spray.”
BONUS TYPE: TREND BASED CONTENT
Trends = instant visibility.
If you stay ahead of TikTok and Instagram trends, you can pitch trend-led UGC concepts to brands.
Brands love creators who can capitalise on what’s hot right now because it increases engagement and virality potential.
Popular UGC Trends:
🔥 Oddly Satisfying – Great for products with visual appeal (skincare, cleaning, cooking).
💃 Dance Trends – If it fits the brand, this can boost exposure.
🎭 Lip-Syncing – Trending audio can make an ad feel organic.
😂 Funny Skits – Humour = engagement. Works well if the brand tone fits.
💭 Final thoughts
As a UGC creator, understanding different content formats isn’t just about making better videos, it’s about making yourself more valuable to brands.
The more formats you master, the more versatile you become, and the easier it is to pitch brands with high-performing content ideas.
Brands aren’t just buying content, they’re buying content that works.
📋 TL;DR
✅ Problem/Solution – The go-to format for paid ads.
✅ Feature Point-Out – Highlights product benefits quickly.
✅ Listicle Style – Engaging ‘X reasons why’ content.
✅ Tutorial/How-To – Educational and brand-friendly.
✅ Before/After – Powerful when regulations allow.
✅ Green Screen – Great for social proof and viral angles.
✅ UGC Mash-Up – Compilation of multiple creators for credibility.
✅ Trend-Based Content – Capitalises on what’s hot right now.
