THE POLICY, QUOTED — NOT PARAPHRASED

What "reused content" actually means

"Reused content refers to channels that repurpose content that's already on YouTube or another online source without adding significant original commentary, substantive modifications, or educational or entertainment value."

That is YouTube's definition, from its channel monetization policies. Two sentences in the same policy end most arguments about it:

"This policy applies even if you have permission from the original creator. Reused content is separate from YouTube's Copyright enforcement, which means it is not based on copyright, permission, or fair use."

Named as not allowed

• Clips of moments from your favorite show edited together with little or no narrative
• Short videos you compiled from other social media websites
• Collections of songs from different artists — even if you have their permission
• Content that exclusively features readings of other materials you did not originally create
• Songs modified to change the pitch or speed, but otherwise identical

Named as allowed

• Clips used for critical review
• Reaction videos with real commentary
• Edited footage where you add a storyline and commentary
• Replays where you explain the moves

The line is not whose footage it is. The line is whether you are visibly the author of the video — your commentary, your modifications, your educational or entertainment value. Score your own pattern on the risk checker, and see documented outcomes in the case library.