You create a reference by claiming a video and turning on Content ID matching for the video. References can also be created by uploading spreadsheet templates.
From a reference file, YouTube creates a digital fingerprint that Content ID compares with videos uploaded to YouTube by other users. When Content ID detects a match, it automatically claims the video on your behalf and applies your match policy to it.
FAQ
What’s the difference between a reference and an asset?
A reference is one component of an asset. An asset can have more than one reference. For example, a movie asset could have separate references with 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios.
An asset is a collection of info about a piece of intellectual property. Assets are made up of references, along with metadata info, asset ownership info, and policies.What’s the difference between a reference and a YouTube video?
A reference is the representation of your intellectual property for Content ID matching. You upload a reference file, then Content ID uses that file as a reference when it’s searching for matches of user-uploaded videos.
A video is the representation of your intellectual property on YouTube. The video uses the same media file as a reference.How do I choose a reference?
In general, it’s recommended you choose full-length files to use as references, rather than short clips. Full-length references result in more Content ID matches and higher monetization rates.
For more info on choosing effective references, go to Best practices for references.