TikTok has pulled in over a billion users—yeah, billion—all scrolling for laughs, learning something cool, or just discovering whatever grabs their attention.
That’s a pretty wild opportunity if you’re looking to grow your audience and snag some followers. But, coming up with TikTok ideas that actually stick? Not so easy.
If you’ve just set up your account and have no clue where to begin, or if you’ve already posted a few clips but feel like you’ve hit a wall, I’ve got you.
Here’s what I’m gonna do: I’ll show you what makes TikToks go viral, toss out 15 video ideas you can run with, and give you a few tips to boost your chances of landing on someone’s “For You” page.
Ready? Let’s hop in.
What Makes a TikTok Go Viral?
Alright, let’s talk about the secret sauce for TikTok success. If you’re wondering why some videos blow up while others barely get a few views, it usually boils down to one (or more) of these things:
#1 It clicks with people
You know that feeling when you see a video, and you’re like, “Wow, it’s like they’re inside my head”?
That’s relatable content right there. It helps others feel noticed, whether you’re sharing a personal story or highlighting one of those “everyone’s been there” moments. And when people feel seen, they stick around.
A study even found that almost 90% of TikTok users love content that feels personal to them. So if your videos don’t hit that nerve? They’re probably swiping past.
#2 It lifts them up
I’m not talking about slapping a motivational quote on your video and calling it a day. Real inspirational content gets people excited about what’s possible—like sharing how you overcame something or how they can reach their goals. People love that stuff because it’s positive and leaves them feeling good.
Approximately one-third of TikTok users reported a strong affinity for uplifting videos. So yeah, sprinkle in a little hope and encouragement—you never know who might need it.
#3 It teaches them something new
TikTok is basically the new Google. People are using it to figure out what to eat, how to style their hair, or even manage their money. If you know something cool or useful, share it! Quick how-tos, tutorials, or tips? Those can get you noticed fast. Plus, short and snappy videos are way easier to stand out with here than trying to rank on a search engine.
#4 It keeps them entertained
People go on TikTok to feel something, whether it’s laughter, curiosity, or pure joy. So if you’ve got a funny story, a unique way of looking at things, or even just some killer dance moves, lean into that. Entertaining content hooks people right away, and that’s what makes TikTok, well, TikTok.
How TikTok Decides What Goes Viral
Alright, let’s get into cracking the TikTok algorithm—because that’s how your videos blow up. When your content is relatable, inspiring, educational, or just plain fun, people can’t help but engage with it. They’re watching it to the end, double-tapping that heart, tagging their friends, and hitting “share.”
And guess what? TikTok notices it.
When the algorithm sees people vibing with your video, it starts pushing it to even more users. That’s how you get onto the For You Page (FYP), TikTok’s home screen that’s personalized for every single user.
But TikTok doesn’t just toss your video into the spotlight randomly. It actually ranks your content based on a mix of things, like:
- What people do with your video: Are they liking it, commenting, sharing it with their group chats, or watching the whole thing? The more engagement, the better.
- What’s in your video: Captions, hashtags, sounds, text overlays—all the little details you add to make your video pop matter more than you think.
- Where you’re coming from: Things like your language, device, and location settings don’t carry as much weight, but they can still nudge your video in the right direction.
So here’s what I’d do (If I were you): before you hit “post,” take a step back and think—how can you make your video irresistible? Keep these factors in mind as we dive into some video ideas you can steal (don’t worry, I won’t tell). Let’s get you on that FYP!
TikTok Video Ideas You Can Run With
#1 Show People How to Do Something Cool (Your Way)
Tutorials are everywhere these days, and for good reason. Whether it’s fixing something, making something, or figuring something out, people love step-by-step guides. And TikTok? It’s a goldmine for this kind of content. Just type “tutorial” into the search bar, and TikTok will show you exactly what’s trending.
Add your specific skill or topic, and boom—you’ve got instant inspiration. Like this TikTok video of mine that went viral and got over 4 million views.
Now, here’s the fun part. Instead of just copying what’s already out there, think about how you can stand out. Maybe your way is quicker, funnier, or just more relatable. Whatever it is, lean into that.
Here’s How I’d Tackle It:
- Check out the competition. Look at the top videos in your niche, and ask yourself: What’s missing? How can you make yours better or different?
- Dig into the comments. Seriously, this is a goldmine. People often ask questions the creator didn’t cover, and that’s your chance to jump in and give them the answers they’re looking for.
- Map it out. I’m not saying you need a Hollywood-level production plan, but a quick script or storyboard can make your video flow way better.
- Keep it simple. Not into showing your face? No problem. A voiceover works just as well and lets you keep the focus on the steps or process.
If you want to learn how I created this viral TikTok video, check out my blog post here.
#2 Try Out a Life Hack (So They Don’t Have To)
I’m sure you’ve seen those viral life hack videos—the ones that promise to make your day easier or solve a problem you didn’t even know you had. Some of them are pure genius, but others are straight-up nonsense.
Share the hacks you’ve actually tried and loved, or better yet, test out those “too good to be true” hacks everyone’s buzzing about.
“Life hacks that work” is one of TikTok’s most searched phrases. That means there’s a whole crowd out there looking for the real deal.
How I’d Go About It:
- Start with your go-to hacks. Got a trick that saves time or solves a common problem? Share it! Bonus points if it’s tied to something you’re already passionate about.
- Keep it real. Did the hack work? Was it a complete flop? Or maybe you found a better way to do it? Whatever the outcome, spill the tea—your audience will appreciate the honesty.
- Don’t skip the fails. Not every hack is foolproof. Show the mistakes to avoid so your viewers can skip the frustration.
#3 Answer Questions Like a Pro
If you’ve been posting for a bit, you’ve probably noticed something: people love to ask questions in the comments. And that’s perfect—it’s like they’re handing you ready-made video ideas on a silver platter. You can take those questions and turn them into a Q&A or FAQ-style video. Easy content, and it’s super engaging.
But what if your comment section’s a little quiet? No worries—you can always pull questions from other places. For example, Instagram’s question sticker in Stories is a fantastic tool. Just ask your followers to drop their burning questions, and you’re set.
Q&A videos are super useful and really make your audience feel like they’re being listened to, which keeps them coming back for more.
#4 Drop Some Game-Changing Tips
Social media trends can sometimes spread some pretty sketchy advice. If you’ve spotted people doing things all wrong or struggling with bad tips, that’s your moment to shine. Share the right way to do it.
Whether it’s skincare hacks, organizing your home, or keeping your plants alive (looking at you, fiddle-leaf figs), people love practical tips they can trust. Found something recently that made your life 100% easier? Don’t keep it to yourself—let your audience in on the secret.
How You Can Make It Click:
- Check out what people are asking you. Scroll through your comments or DMs. Are folks constantly asking how you get flawless skin, perfect lighting, or great sound? Take their questions and turn them into a quick tips video.
- Show, don’t just tell. Walk them through your process, share your results, and let them see why your tips work. It’s all about being real and relatable.
#5 Share an Amazing Transformation
I don’t know about you, but there’s something so addictive about a good transformation video. Watching something go from “meh” to “wow” is a pure satisfaction. Maybe you’re flipping a thrifted shirt into a killer outfit or turning a cluttered corner of your home into a dreamy setup—it doesn’t matter. People love seeing the whole process, especially when you start with a rough “before” and finish with an impressive “after.”
But transformations aren’t just about DIY or home makeovers. Think bigger. You could show how you cleared up your skin, switched up your career, or tackled a personal goal. The point is to take your audience on that journey with you—from the struggle to the payoff.
Start with the messy, imperfect “before” (yes, people want to see the chaos), walk them through how you made it happen, and then hit them with the big reveal.
#6 Instagram vs. Reality: Keep It Real
You know how Instagram is all about those perfect shots—the ones with just the right lighting, flawless angles, and an insane amount of editing? Yeah, but what’s really going on behind the scenes? That’s the part people actually want to see. How many tries did it take to get that “effortless” photo? What chaos was cropped out of the frame?
TikTok isn’t about perfection—it’s about being real. That’s why Instagram vs. Reality videos are blowing up. Show what life really looks like, whether it’s you without the filters, a travel spot that’s more “meh” than magical, or the mountain of laundry hiding behind your Instagram-worthy corner of the house.
How You Can Make It Work:
- Think about the struggle. What’s something that looks way easier than it really is? Maybe that adorable family photo took two hours because your kid kept face-planting in the mud. Or maybe your spotless kitchen is a rare miracle, and the usual state of things is total chaos.
- Get vulnerable. Don’t hold back—show the messy, awkward, and real moments. TikTok thrives on authenticity, and your audience will connect with you more when they see you being genuine.
#7 Take Them Behind the Scenes
People are nosy. They love knowing what’s happening behind the curtain, especially when it comes to how you create your content. If you’re recording a podcast, filming videos, or diving into something else entirely, sharing a little behind-the-scenes look at your process is a great way to engage your audience.
How I’d Do It:
- Double up if you’re filming. Use one camera for the actual content and another to record you in action. But hey, if your thing isn’t video creation, one camera is totally enough to get the job done.
- Finish strong. Don’t leave people hanging—show off the final product! You can either drop it in the same video or link to it in the comments.
#8 Let Them In on Your Creative Process
You know that thing you do—whether it’s painting, crafting, designing, or creating something amazing from scratch? People want to see how it all happens. Sharing your creative process isn’t just interesting—it’s a chance to connect with your audience on a whole new level.
If you’re an artist, you can speed things up and show your entire creation from start to finish in a minute or less.
Watching hours of hard work compressed into seconds is oddly satisfying. And if you run a small business? Giving potential customers a peek into your process makes them appreciate your work even more—and might just convince them to hit “Add to Cart.”
#9 Bring Them Along for a “Day in the Life”
People are obsessed with “Day in the Life” videos. With over 9 billion views under the hashtag, it’s clear these quick vlogs are a hit. And it makes sense—there’s something fascinating about seeing how other people spend their day.
Why do these work so well? Simple. People love relatable content. Maybe your day inspires them to be more productive or mindful, or maybe it just helps them understand someone else’s perspective. Either way, your story matters.
Here’s How I’d Do It:
- Keep it honest. Don’t feel like you have to glam it up. Show your real day—the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
- Have a game plan. Jot down the key moments you want to capture so you don’t forget anything important. It’ll make editing way easier too.
- Catch their eye with the title. Use a title that grabs attention—something that makes people curious or feel connected to your story.
#10 Let’s Do a “Get Ready With Me” (GRWM)
Alright, let’s talk GRWM videos. These started with beauty vloggers on YouTube, but TikTok has taken them to a whole new level.
You don’t have to be a makeup artist or fashion guru to hop on this trend. No matter if you’re prepping for work, heading to school, enjoying a night out, or simply settling in to binge-watch your favorite series in comfy pajamas, there’s always space for your unique take on a get-ready-with-me moment.
How I’d Make It Yours:
- Show the real deal. If your mornings are more “scramble to find matching socks” than a calm aesthetic vibe, own it. Remember, chaos is relatable, and relatable wins every time.
- Share your hacks. Got a trick to make mornings easier? A favorite product you swear by? Show it off.
- Make it visually fun. If you’re not talking through your routine, let your shots do the work. Play around with different angles, smooth transitions, or edits that keep the video engaging.
- Pick the vibe. Whether it’s ASMR from your routine or a trending sound, the right audio makes a big difference.
- Try something different. Not feeling the GRWM vibe? Flip it. Do a “Get Unready With Me” instead, and show your audience how you unwind after a long day.
#11 Try Out a Trending Challenge
If there’s one thing TikTok is known for, it’s trends. They pop up fast, take over your feed, and suddenly everyone’s jumping on board. Trends are tied to specific sounds or themes, so all you have to do is put your spin on it.
Think of it like this: you hear a trending sound, and your job is to create a video that matches the vibe. It’s a quick way to stay relevant and boost your chances of showing up on someone’s feed.
Finding trends is easy—just spend a little time scrolling through the For You or Discover pages. Once you spot something you like, it’s all about making it your own.
Most trends don’t need fancy edits or hours of effort, but they can still rack up views like crazy.
How I’d Do It:
- Pick a trend that fits you. Not every trend will vibe with your style or niche, and that’s fine. Choose one that feels like something you’d actually enjoy making.
- Scope it out first. Watch how other creators are using the trend to get some ideas. For example, the #RaisedBy trend had people sharing throwback photos of the people who raised them.
- Make it yours. Add your personality or twist to the trend—think about how it ties back to your content or story.
- Use the sound. When you’re ready, hit “Use this sound” and start filming. Let the trend do the heavy lifting while you make it uniquely yours.
#12 Dive Into a TikTok Challenge
I know the idea of dancing in front of a camera might sound a little intimidating, but don’t let that stop you. These challenges are more about having fun and showing off your personality than perfecting your moves. And if you’re running a business? Even better! Get your team involved—it’s a great way to show off your company’s vibe and culture.
Not into dancing? No biggie. You can still hop on a trending challenge by using the sound in a totally different way. Maybe you create a funny skit, share a behind-the-scenes moment, or even show off your products. It’s all about making it work for you.
Here’s How You Can Nail It:
- Find your challenge. Spend a few minutes on the Discover or For You pages, and you’ll see what’s trending. Pick something that fits your vibe or gives you room to add your twist.
- Add your spin. Whether you’re sticking to the original idea or flipping it into something new, make the challenge feel like yours.
- Use the sound. Once you’ve got your plan, just hit “Use this sound” and get started.
#13 Create a Duet That Stands Out
Duets are one of my favorite TikTok features. They let you collaborate without even needing to coordinate with someone else. Your video plays side by side with theirs. Duets are such a fun way to get involved, whether you’re reacting, throwing in a funny twist, or putting your own creative spin on things!
Some creators have even built their entire audience by dueting others and making it uniquely their own.
How I’d Do It:
- Add your sense of humor. If you’ve got a knack for making people laugh, this is your moment. Watch the original video and think about how you can layer in a funny narrative or your personal reaction.
- React to something your followers care about. Find a video on a topic your audience loves and hit record. Your authentic reactions—be it shock, amusement, or uncontrollable laughter—will resonate deeply.
#14 Create an ASMR Video That Hits the Sweet Spot
If you’re not familiar, ASMR stands for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response, and it’s all about those oddly satisfying sounds that relax you. Think the soft spritz of a spray bottle, gentle tapping, or the crinkle of paper. People love this stuff, and TikTok is full of it—the ASMR hashtag has over 500 billion views!
You don’t need to be an ASMR pro to jump in. Even if your niche is landscaping or organizing, there’s probably something you’re already doing that creates satisfying sounds. Restocking products? Crinkling wrappers? Placing objects just so? All of that could be your ticket to a great ASMR video.
Here’s How You Can Make It Work:
- Pick what fits you. Think about what in your day-to-day could work as an ASMR moment. Is it the sound of scissors snipping, leaves crunching, or items being neatly placed on a shelf?
- Plan your shots. Take a little time to figure out what scenes you want to highlight and what sounds you’ll focus on.
- Keep the sounds front and center. If you’re placing a glass on a counter, make that little clink the star of the show. Everything else? Background.
- Perfect your audio. No background noise, no distractions—just clean, crisp sound. Use an editing app to tweak things like EQ and compression for a polished vibe.
#15 Make a Video Using a Trending Sound
You’ve probably noticed those viral sounds popping up all over your For You Page. That’s because TikTok’s trending sounds aren’t just catchy—they’re a shortcut to getting your video discovered. You don’t even have to search too hard. When you hear a sound you like, just hit “add to favorites” or “use this sound,” and you’re ready to roll.
Here’s How I’d Do It:
- Tie the sound to your own story. Think of a moment or experience in your life that fits the vibe of the sound. Maybe it’s something funny, awkward, or even totally random. Use that idea as your caption or title—it’ll hook people right away.
My Top Tips to Help Your TikToks Go Viral
So, you want your TikToks to explode, right? Viral videos aren’t about luck; they’re about strategy, and I’m here to share what works. Let’s dive in.
Grab Their Attention Right Away
The first few seconds? Crucial. You’ve gotta hook your audience immediately, or they’ll scroll right past. Try starting with a problem your audience can relate to and teasing how you’ll solve it. Or throw out a cliffhanger that keeps them guessing—whatever makes them think, “Okay, I have to see this.”
Use Text to Reel Them In
Text on your video? It’s not optional—it’s a must. Whether it’s a single line or full captions, it gives people a reason to stop and watch. Plus, subtitles are a game changer for people watching without sound (and there are a lot of them). Bonus: captions help your video show up in searches, so it’s a win-win. Use TikTok’s built-in caption tool or apps like Opus Clip Ai for an extra polished look.
Nail Your Hashtags
Hashtags are like little breadcrumbs for TikTok’s algorithm. They help your video land in front of the right people. Let’s say you’re sharing keto recipes—hashtags like #ketorecipes make sure your content reaches folks who are into that. My tip? Go for hashtags with fewer videos attached so your content doesn’t get lost in the noise.
Stay Consistent
If people follow you, they want more of your content—it’s as simple as that. Keep them hooked by posting regularly. The easiest way to stay consistent? Batch-create. Set aside a day for brainstorming, another for filming, and another for editing. Use TikTok’s scheduling tool to keep everything on track. It’s a lifesaver, trust me.
Post When It Counts
Timing is everything. Take a look at your best-performing videos and see what time you posted them. If you’re still figuring it out, aim for when your audience is likely scrolling—think lunchtime or early evening. Posting at random times, like midnight? Probably not gonna cut it.
Engage With Your People
TikTok loves engagement, and so does your audience. Encourage comments by asking questions in your captions or creating content that sparks a conversation. And when your videos start gaining traction? Reply to those comments, answer questions, and show people you’re listening. It’s a simple way to build a loyal community and keep the algorithm happy.
Don’t Forget the Basics: Lighting, Audio, and Editing
TikTok is great because you can be scrappy, but even on this platform, quality matters. If your lighting’s off, your audio’s messy, or your editing feels clunky, people might scroll right past you.
First up: audio. If your voice isn’t clear or background noise takes over, it’s game over. Make sure your sound is crisp and your music or effects don’t overpower what you’re saying. Next: lighting. You don’t need a full studio setup—a window with natural light can work wonders. Just think about how it supports your video’s vibe. And finally: editing. The best videos flow smoothly and keep you hooked from start to finish. Practice your cuts, transitions, and timing—it’ll make a huge difference.
Here’s the key to TikTok success: be you.
The best content feels real and shares something valuable, whether it’s tips, a story, or just a good laugh. Think about your audience—why do they follow you? What do they love about your niche? Once you have that figured out, you’ll know exactly how to make your videos stand out.
