30-Second Summary
What you'll learn from this article
- First 3 seconds determine 90% of your video's success — hook immediately
- Watch time percentage matters more than total views for algorithm boost
- Trending sounds increase discoverability by 50%+ but original content builds loyalty
- Posting 1-3x daily at peak hours (7-9am, 12-2pm, 7-10pm) maximizes reach
- Engagement velocity in first hour signals viral potential to the algorithm
Understand how the algorithm works and increase your chances of going viral by 10x. In this guide, you'll find the formulas you need to succeed on TikTok and Reels.
Understanding how TikTok and Reels algorithms work increases your viral potential by 10x. Capturing attention in the first 3 seconds, optimizing watch time, and leveraging trends are the keys to success.
The viral content formula: Hook + Value + CTA. Using these three elements in the right combination dramatically increases your organic reach.
How Do TikTok and Reels Algorithms Work?
The TikTok algorithm evaluates watch time, loop rate, shares, and comment metrics. Videos that achieve 70%+ watch time in the first 200 views get distributed to wider audiences.
The algorithm first shows every new video to a small test group. This group's response determines the video's fate.
Watch time is the most important metric. The longer a video is watched, the more users the algorithm shows it to.
Loop rate, the number of times a video is rewatched, is also critical. Short and curiosity-inducing videos achieve high loop rates.
Engagements like shares, saves, and comments also feed the algorithm. Videos that prompt action get prioritized.
The 200 Views Rule: Every video is tested in its first 200 views. If you achieve 70%+ watch time at this stage, you have a chance to reach thousands of people.
Effective Hook Formulas
A hook is the element that captures viewers in the first 1-3 seconds. Hooks like 'Don't do this!' or 'I'm warning you...' create curiosity and increase watch time.
Curiosity hooks: Phrases like 'You should never do this!' or 'I'm warning you...' spark curiosity and retain viewers.
Value hooks: Hooks that promise concrete value like 'Learn this in 3 minutes' or 'What your boss never told you' are highly effective.
Shock hooks: Starting with an unexpected visual or statement grabs attention. Like 'I couldn't believe it either, but...'
POV hooks: Hooks like 'POV: The house you bought with your first paycheck' that pull viewers into the scene get high engagement.
How to Increase Watch Time
To increase watch time, speed up your video, cut unnecessary pauses, and promise a surprise at the end. Optimal video length is 15-30 seconds for TikTok and 7-15 seconds for Reels.
Increase video pace: Slow speech and unnecessary pauses lose viewers. Think 1.2x-1.5x speed.
Use pattern interrupts: Make visual or audio changes every 2-3 seconds. Monotony loses viewers.
Promise a surprise at the end: Phrases like 'Don't miss the twist at the end!' keep viewers until the final second.
Create a loop point: A seamless transition between the video's end and beginning increases loop rate.
Trending Sounds and Hashtags
Trending sounds are prioritized by the algorithm. TikTok Creative Center and the Reels trend page should be used to track current trends.
Trending sounds are content pushed by the algorithm. Using a trending sound increases your chances of appearing in Discover.
However, don't use trending sounds blindly. Choose trends that align with your brand and message.
Hashtag strategy: A combination of 3-5 niche hashtags + 1-2 trending hashtags is optimal. Very general hashtags increase competition.
TikTok Creative Center is the best resource for tracking trending sounds and hashtags. Check it daily.
Trend Calendar: Important dates and events can be planned in advance. Create a content calendar for holidays, special days, and seasonal trends.
Conclusion: The Formula Is Simple
The viral content formula: Strong hook + high watch time + trend usage. Content that combines these three elements gets discovered.
Going viral isn't luck, it's a formula. When the combination of hook, watch time, and trends is applied consistently, results follow.
Test, measure, optimize. Every video is a learning opportunity. Track your analytics closely.