How does the YouTube algorithm determine which videos to recommend?

The YouTube algorithm is a complex beast, but it boils down to showing you videos it thinks you'll like and engage with. Here's a breakdown of some key factors:

* **Your watch history:** This is a big one. Videos you've watched in the past, especially those you watched a significant portion of, are strong indicators of your interests.
* **Channel engagement:** Subscribing to a channel and liking its videos tells the algorithm you're a fan, so you'll likely see more from that channel.
* **Video performance:** Videos with high watch time, likes, and shares are seen as more engaging and get recommended more often.
* **Viewer satisfaction:** The algorithm goes beyond just watch time. It considers if you dropped off the video early, indicating it wasn't a good fit.
* **Video similarity:** The algorithm recommends videos similar to what you've watched or what other viewers who watched similar things enjoyed.
* **Channel authority:** Videos from established channels with a good reputation are often seen as more trustworthy and get recommended more.

It's all about YouTube trying to match you with the content you'll enjoy and keep you watching.