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How to Make and Set a Streaming Schedule on Twitch

Setting a consistent streaming schedule is crucial for growing your audience and channel on Twitch. Viewers like tuning in at the same time every week to catch their favorite streamers. A set schedule also helps you plan ahead and create better quality streams.

Follow this guide to learn how to make and optimize a streaming schedule that works for both you and your viewers.

Choose an Ideal Streaming Time

The first step is choosing a day and time combination that aligns with your schedule and maximizes viewership.

Here are some tips for picking ideal streaming times:

  • Stream when your target audience is most active online. Check Twitch analytics to see when your current viewers tend to watch streams. Try to stream around those peak hours.
  • Aim for 2-3 consistent streaming days per week. This allows viewers to plan their week around catching your streams. More than 3 days can lead to streamer burnout.
  • Consider your personal schedule. Make sure you can consistently stream at the set times every week without scheduling conflicts.
  • Try different time slots and see what works best. You can always tweak your schedule later based on view count, chat activity, and feedback.

Add a Streaming Schedule on Twitch

Once you’ve decided on your streaming times, add your schedule to your Twitch channel:

  1. Log in to Twitch and go to your Creator Dashboard.
  2. Click on Settings > Channel > Schedule.
  3. Click Add Stream.
  4. Select your planned streaming day / time / frequency.
  5. Add a title and game for the scheduled stream.
  6. Click Save Changes.
  7. Repeat to add multiple weekly streaming times.

Optimize Your Twitch Schedule

Follow these tips to further optimize your streaming schedule:

  • Be consistent. Stick to your schedule as much as possible. Consistency builds viewer loyalty.
  • Promote your schedule. Share your streaming times on social media and Twitch panels.
  • Use stream titles and game names that match your actual content plans to avoid disappointing viewers.
  • Occasionally host special events outside your normal schedule and promote them widely.
  • Take a break if needed, just be sure to communicate schedule changes to give viewers a heads up.

Benefits of Setting a Twitch Streaming Schedule

Here are some of the main benefits of maintaining a consistent broadcasting schedule on Twitch:

  • Increased discoverability – A set schedule makes it easier for new viewers to find your streams.
  • Viewer growth – Regular viewers will return each week rather than missing streams.
  • Better planning – You can prepare stream ideas, graphics, layouts, and promotions in advance.
  • Streaming habit – A consistent schedule establishes streaming as a habit.
  • No viewer disappointment – Viewers know exactly when to tune in for new content.
  • Channel legitimacy – A schedule signals you are serious about streaming and not doing it sporadically.

Additional Tips for Stream Scheduling Success

Keep these additional tips in mind when scheduling streams on Twitch:

  • Use a calendar app to track your schedule across platforms.
  • Schedule breaks to avoid streamer fatigue.
  • Ask viewers for day and time preferences through polls and chat.
  • Analyze your VOD views to identify ideal streaming times.
  • Promote upcoming streams 2-3 days in advance on social media.
  • Set reminders to go live through Streamlabs or other tools to avoid being late.
  • Download Twitch’s streaming software early to test your setup before going live.
  • Keep a consistent pre-stream start time for your intro graphics and viewer onboarding.

Establishing a reliable streaming schedule takes some trial and error. But in the long run, it leads to channel growth and an improved streaming strategy. Use the guide above to determine a weekly schedule that meets both your needs and your viewers’ preferences.

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