Short video explainers are a powerful way for students to grasp complex topics quickly and visually. Whether you’re revising for a test or exploring a new subject, these videos break down academic concepts into easy-to-digest formats. They often include graphics, real-life examples, and animated storytelling to enhance understanding and retention. Here are some of the best platforms where students can find free or low-cost short video study explainers across various subjects and grade levels:
- Khan Academy – Offers thousands of free video lessons on math, science, economics, grammar, history, and test prep. Videos are typically 5–15 minutes long and explain concepts step-by-step in a student-friendly tone.
- CrashCourse (YouTube) – A high-quality educational YouTube channel that delivers entertaining yet informative explainer videos in subjects like biology, chemistry, literature, history, and psychology. Videos are fast-paced, visual, and designed for high school and college learners.
- TED-Ed – Combines expert insight with animated storytelling. TED-Ed offers brief videos (3–8 minutes) that explore educational ideas and core academic content, ideal for sparking curiosity and reviewing big concepts.
- Study.com (Free Preview Videos) – While it’s a subscription-based service, Study.com provides free previews of thousands of academic videos. These short clips often serve as summaries or refreshers for key ideas in math, science, language arts, and test prep.
- BBC Bitesize – Designed for UK learners but useful globally, BBC Bitesize offers short, curriculum-aligned explainer videos for primary and secondary school students. Subjects include English, geography, physics, and more.
- National Geographic Education – Hosts brief video explainers on science, culture, and geography, often tied to real-world applications. Great for students interested in the environment, anthropology, or global awareness.
- MinutePhysics / MinuteEarth (YouTube) – These YouTube channels explain science topics in under five minutes using simple visuals and fast narration. Perfect for curious learners and science enthusiasts.
- PBS LearningMedia – Offers short educational videos for all grade levels, with companion materials for teachers. Videos are available in math, science, social studies, and the arts.
- Numberphile / Veritasium (YouTube) – Math and science-focused channels that explain concepts using real-life examples and experiments. While some videos are longer, many are under 10 minutes and very accessible.
- YouTube Learning Playlists – Search YouTube for curated study playlists in your subject area. Use filters to find short videos from verified educational creators.
- Edpuzzle – Allows teachers to embed questions in YouTube videos and assign them as interactive homework. Students benefit from short video clips with comprehension checks.
- CommonLit (with Paired Media) – CommonLit sometimes includes short videos with reading passages to support comprehension. Useful for language arts and history learners.
- HippoCampus – A free educational site offering multimedia content in math, biology, environmental science, and government. Videos are short, standards-aligned, and designed for high school and college learners.
- Scholastic Learn at Home (Archived) – Offers short reading and explainer videos for younger learners. These are suitable for elementary students working on literacy and general knowledge.
- Brightstorm (Free Sample Videos) – Geared toward high school students, Brightstorm provides sample videos in algebra, geometry, calculus, and chemistry. These explainers are concise and ideal for quick review sessions.
In summary, short video study explainers make learning more accessible, engaging, and time-efficient. Whether you’re reviewing for a test, exploring a tough topic, or just curious, these platforms provide reliable and visually rich content to help students learn at their own pace.
