How The TikTok Algorithm Works in 2024

TikTok
4 min readJan 7, 2024

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It’s widely recognized that the content on our social media feeds isn’t randomly selected. Instead, it’s tailored by sophisticated coding systems that analyze user engagement, including which videos are watched more or less. A prime example of this is the TikTok algorithm.

We’re already familiar with the workings of algorithms on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter as of 2024. But what about TikTok’s algorithm? How does it function?

As starting of 2024, we’ve conducted an in-depth TikTok Study for you. It sheds light on key queries of social media managers, creators, and businesses. The study provides valuable insights into TikTok’s operational strategies, helping you enhance your approach.

How the TikTok Algorithm Originated

Back in 2020, when TikTok was surging in popularity, the specifics of its content ranking were a mystery. Users who found success on TikTok could only speculate on strategies for achieving it.

Eventually, TikTok revealed its methodology for curating the “For You” section, demonstrating how content is personalized for each user based on their engagement and preferences.

This revelation included several “ranking factors” or “triggers,” categorized into user interactions, video information, and device and account settings. The algorithm has continually evolved, especially with advancements in Artificial Intelligence.

How the TikTok Algorithm Works in 2024

Fast forward to 2024, TikTok has preserved these ranking factors, but with enhancements to accommodate the platform’s growth and new features.

Here’s a breakdown of how each ranking factor influences content curation on TikTok:

➡️ User Interactions:

TikTok’s algorithm assesses user activities such as:

  • Likes
  • Comments
  • Follows
  • Shares
  • Saves
  • Watch time

High engagement increases the likelihood of a video reaching similar audiences, emphasizing the importance of crafting content that resonates with your target community.

➡️ Video Information:

TikTok evaluates the video’s content, including:

  • Keywords
  • Hashtags
  • Sounds
  • Effects
  • Content topics

Utilizing TikTok SEO can significantly enhance your video’s visibility, especially when aligning with trending elements in your niche.

➡️ Device and Account Settings:

The algorithm also considers user settings like:

  • Language
  • Location
  • Mobile device type
  • Interested categories

These are used to align videos with personal preferences. Enhancing video accessibility can boost its ranking.

Customizing Your “For You” Page:

The “For You” page on TikTok isn’t generated by chance; you have significant control over the content it displays.

#1. Selecting Interests and Preferences

When you set up your TikTok account, you’ll be prompted to choose your interests. This selection shapes what TikTok displays on your “For You” page.

Additionally, you can fine-tune your content preferences in the Settings and privacy section. Here, you can refresh your “For You” page, enable the STEM feed, filter specific video keywords, select your language preference, and review your past activities.

#2. Tailoring Through Interaction

Every interaction you make in the app informs the TikTok algorithm. The videos you watch fully, share, or interact with influence the composition of your “For You” page. While this won’t be the sole content you see, it significantly shapes your feed, gradually training the algorithm to present content that interests you.

Strategies to Increase Your Visibility on TikTok

#1. Employ SEO Techniques

Tools like TikSight.com provides trending which can help identify trending keywords relevant to your niche. Using these keywords in captions, on-screen text, thumbnails, and hashtags makes your content more discoverable by the TikTok search engine.

#2. Embrace Trending Themes

While it’s challenging to keep up with every trend, incorporating trending audios or concepts into your content adds relatability and authenticity. TikTok is primarily for entertainment; thus, blending trends with your unique style can lead to engaging, memorable content. Leveraging the trending hashtags & trending songs on TikSight can help you catching the waves!

#3. Utilize Effects and Templates

TikTok’s array of editing tools, effects, and templates, including those from CapCut, allows for innovative video creation. These resources are particularly helpful for crafting visually engaging short-form videos. Learn more about using CapCut templates in our guide.

#4. Craft Audience-Centric Content

Given the brief attention spans of users, capturing your audience’s interest in the first three seconds is crucial. Create content that addresses their queries, offers solutions, or educates on specific topics. Valuable content encourages viewers to return to your account.

Now that you know how the TikTok algorithm works, it is time to get down to work to succeed with your content strategy.

Join our vibrant Discord community for social media creators, where you’ll find exclusive resources, networking opportunities, and personalized support to elevate your content and grow your audience!

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