Side-by-side comparison: structure, script and how to clone it

Side-by-side comparison is a proven short-video structure. Here is why it holds attention, how its beats are timed, a script you can start from, and the command that clones it for your own subject.

Why this format works

Comparison formats hold attention on a single question — which of these two is better — and the split screen makes the answer feel checkable instead of asserted.

Structure breakdown

1. 1. Question (0–3s)

   Name both options and the criteria in one line.

2. 2. Round 1 (3–15s)

   First criterion, both sides shown, verdict stated fast.

3. 3. Round 2 (15–30s)

   Second criterion. Change the winner to keep it honest.

4. 4. Round 3 (30–45s)

   The criterion that actually decides it, then the overall call.

5. 5. Caveat (last 5s)

   Who should pick the loser anyway — this is what makes the video trustworthy.

A script you can start from

Segments, takes and selection anchors — this is the part of the project that changes when you re-run the format:

<script>
<segment> id="round-one">
  <take>Round one: || @setup setup. || Left wins || @left-wins by one command. || Round two: || @cost cost. || Right wins.</take>
</segment>
<ranking-column>
  <item during={script.selection.left-wins} />
</ranking-column>

What you need

• — Two options you have actually used
• — Three criteria, at least one where the other side wins
• — Matched framing for both sides

Run it

hypit run clone --reference ./reference/comparison.mp4 --script ./compare.svs --variants 3

The reference video stays fixed. Change the script, re-run, and you get a new edit in the same format — that is the whole point of cloning instead of prompting.

Keep reading

• All clone formats
• Use cases
• Comparisons
• Quickstart
• Glossary

FAQ