Protected: Guidebook
March 21, 2024
We have made a summary of TikTok’s latest algorithm. The platform just changed how it looks at your posted content, how long your posted videos should be, and what actually matters if you want to grow.
TikTok now cares about the words people use when they post comment on your posts. If you ask your audience to drop a certain word below, or you reply using that word, TikTok now picks up on it. It’s like the app is checking if your video actually matches the topic people care about.
There’s a new stat to watch: How many of your viewers are new? You want this to be over 90%. The more new faces see your posts, the more TikTok pushes your stuff out to even more people.
Watch time is big. If people stick around past the first 15 seconds, your video does better. So have a good hook up front, show a few quick cuts, or just make longer content—whatever keeps people watching.
Who Sees Your Stuff?
Here’s the thing: TikTok used to show your videos to everyone. Not anymore. Now, it’s about who’s searching for that idea and who’s interacted with it lately. So, before you post something, check which topics are hot and which ones people are actually searching for. Even changing one word in your title can be the difference between a few thousand or a hundred thousand views.
Metadata and Hashtags Matter
It’s not just what you say on camera. You need the right hashtags and keywords in your description. Tools like Metricool can help you pick the best stuff to tell TikTok exactly what your video’s about and who should see it. And scheduling posts ahead of time is fine—TikTok doesn’t punish you for it.
Search Is Huge
People aren’t heading to Google or YouTube like they used to. They’re searching right on TikTok. So, try to make about half your videos answer real questions you know your viewers have. Put those search terms in the hook, description, captions, and comments. You can even respond to comments with the same keyword. Videos over a minute long can rank higher and even earn you a bit of cash.
How Long Should Your Videos Be?
Right now, three lengths seem to do best:
- 5 to 7 seconds for short, funny stuff or memes
- 27 to 35 seconds for showing something quick or short explanations
- Over 55 seconds for deeper dives—these get pushed harder and you might even get paid
If you’re not sure, search for the topic and copy the length of the top videos you find.
Bottom Line
You don’t need to hype it up. The rules have changed, and if you tweak your content—keywords, video length, who you’re reaching, and how you use hashtags—you can actually grow faster. Use real examples from what’s trending. Stay honest about what works and try the tools that make it easier. This stuff gives you a shot at more followers, and if you stick with it, you could even make it a full-time thing.