It’s the kind of thing that happens every day on TikTok: someone posts a casual clip – maybe a funny voiceover, a relatable moment or even just a look behind the scenes – and by the next morning, it's racked up millions of views. No ad budget, no influencer push – only the kind of content that hits the algorithm just right.

TikTok has changed the way we create, consume and share content. What starts as a quick clip can reach millions in a matter of hours. But while going viral on TikTok may seem like digital magic, there’s actually a method behind the madness. In this article, we’ll walk you through how going viral on TikTok by learning how the TikTok algorithm works, keeping an eye on TikTok trends, and creating videos that people want to watch and share. Plus, we’ll show you how to refine your content using the Adobe Express TikTok video creator – the perfect tool for turning raw footage into potentially viral TikTok clips that stand out in a fast-moving feed.

Whether you’re a brand, a content creator or just starting out, this is your go-to guide for making viral TikTok videos.

Why going viral matters on TikTok.

Going viral on TikTok isn’t just about sudden internet fame. For businesses, it’s a chance to reach new customers. For creators, it’s a launchpad for long-term growth. And for anyone looking to build a brand, it’s one of the fastest ways to gain attention.

Why is going viral so powerful? Viral TikTok videos can reach millions of viewers in days – and even small accounts can land a viral hit. Subsequently, one viral post can lead to thousands of new followers. On top of that, a viral TikTok builds credibility and positions your account as worth watching. And last but not least, a viral TikTok video comes with a lot of opportunities, as brand deals, partnerships, media coverage and other chances to make money on TikTok often follow viral success.

Strategies to increase viral potential on TikTok.

You’re wondering how to go viral on TikTok? The key is to understand the TikTok algorithm – and use it to your advantage. TikTok’s For You Page (FYP) is curated using a mix of signals that reflect how users interact with content. Let’s break down the most important factors of the TikTok algorithm together and derive strategies to increase your viral potential on TikTok.

Understanding the TikTok algorithm.

To go viral on TikTok, you don’t need a massive following – you need the right signals. The platform’s algorithm is built to serve users content that keeps them engaged. That means your video’s performance is judged by a mix of behavioural and content-based metrics. Here’s what matters most:

• User behaviour signals: The algorithm looks at how people interact with your videos – likes, comments, watch time, replays and shares. The more positive signals, the more visibility.
• Video data: This includes your captions, hashtags, sounds, and effects. Using trending audio or hashtags helps TikTok understand what a video is about – and who it should be shown to.
• Account interactions: What your viewers typically engage with (topics, creators, styles) also plays a role in whether your content shows up on their For You Page.
• Device and language settings: These help the algorithm localise content, especially for regional trends or niche audiences.

What doesn’t matter as much? Follower count. TikTok prioritises relevance and engagement – not your existing reach. If you want to take a deeper dive, read more on how the TikTok algorithm works.

How to work with the TikTok algorithm.

Knowing how the TikTok algorithm works is the foundation – and now you can tweak your content so it appeals to the algorithm and maybe even goes viral. Here are our top tips:

• Hook early: Catch the viewer’s eye in the first three seconds of your TikTok video – through motion, text or sound.
• Watch time matters: Longer viewing and replays signal strong content. Make sure your videos are interesting until the end (you can even use the infamous “watch till the end to see …” hook) and make sure you are posting at the best times to maximise engagement.
• Use trending sounds and hashtags: These help your content show up in more searches and For You feeds.
• Ask questions in your captions: Make your viewers talk. Comments and responses are key ranking factors. Want to know more? Read our 11 tested tips for boosting your TikTok engagement.
• Use trends to your advantage: Stitch, duet (read our article on How to duet on TikTok” here) or react to trending videos to stay relevant.
• Be regular, not random: Aim for 3 to 5 TikTok uploads per week to stay top of mind.
• Make your content loop-worthy: Shorter videos are more likely to be watched completely, and repeatedly.

In the end, going viral isn’t just about luck – it’s about understanding how TikTok works and using that insight creatively. Consistency, relevance and timing are your best tools.

10 content ideas for viral TikTok videos.

Not sure what kind of content goes viral on TikTok? Here are some tried-and-tested formats that have potential to go viral on TikTok:

1. Behind-the-scenes: Share how something is made or what your day looks like. Authenticity wins.
2. Tutorials and how-tos: Teach something – from recipes to design tips to product hacks.
3. Before-and-after: Whether it’s a renovation, transformation or creative process, these formats grab attention.
4. Storytime videos: Personal anecdotes told in a relatable way often spark comments and shares.
5. Duets and stitches: Collaborate with or respond to trending content. It’s a great way to join ongoing conversations.
6. Reaction videos: Reacting to trends or unexpected videos can be low-effort and high-reward.
7. Trending sounds: Sounds are huge on TikTok – and sometimes, a creative video with a trending sound is all it takes to go viral on TikTok.
8. Mini vlogs: Quick day-in-the-life recaps or aesthetic routines keep people watching and coming back.
9. Unboxing or first impressions: People love seeing genuine reactions – especially if it involves products or tools they’re curious about.
10. Quick tips or myths busted: Share bite-sized advice or debunk common misconceptions in your field. Short, snappy and valuable.

Tip: To stay inspired, spend time on your For You Page and take note of what’s trending. But don’t copy – reinterpret it with your own voice.

If you run a small business, head to our article “Viral UK TikTok trends for small businesses” to find even more content ideas.

Edit viral TikTok videos with the Adobe Express TikTok video creator.

You’ve got your concept. You’ve shot your footage. Now it’s time to edit it like a pro – and that’s where Adobe Express comes in. The Adobe Express TikTok video creator helps you turn raw clips into scroll-stopping (and hopefully soon-to-be viral) TikTok videos. It’s browser-based, beginner-friendly and designed to make editing fast and fun. Here’s how to use it:

• Open Adobe Express.
• Start with a template: Choose from TikTok-optimised video templates that already follow best practices for aspect ratio and pacing. You also can always start with an empty design.
• Upload your clips: Drag and drop your footage directly into the editor.
• Add text and motion: Use animated text overlays to hook viewers in the first few seconds.
• Sync with music: Select from built-in audio options or upload your own track.
• Trim and perfect: Cut out dead space, adjust timing and make sure your video loops smoothly.
• Export and post: Download your final cut and share directly to TikTok.

Creating viral TikTok videos doesn’t have to be overwhelming – with Adobe Express, your editing game is already halfway there.

Take your TikToks from trending to viral with Adobe Express.

Once your TikTok content is gaining traction, Adobe Express helps you push it even further. From bold video openers and animations to standout thumbnails and polished edits – you can keep every post sharp, consistent and true to your brand. You can even resize clips from other social media platforms for TikTok with the TikTok resizing tool, or schedule your posts using the TikTok content scheduling tool. And you know what this means: more time to plan your next viral TikTok video!

Try Adobe Express for free now

Good to know.

How many views is viral on TikTok?

Viral on TikTok typically means 500,000+ views – but anything above 100,000 is often seen as viral, especially for newer or smaller accounts.

How hard is it to go viral on TikTok?

Going viral on TikTok is easier than on other platforms, thanks to the TikTok algorithm, which surfaces content based on engagement, not follower count. But it still takes strategy, consistency and creativity to go viral on TikTok.

How does the TikTok algorithm work?

The TikTok algorithm recommends content based on different factors, such as user interactions, video information (like captions and sounds), and device settings. Videos with high watch time, replays and engagement are most likely to go viral.

How often should you post on TikTok to go viral?

Aim to post 3 to 5 TikTok videos per week. This keeps your content fresh and helps the algorithm understand your niche and audience better – and thus, might help your account to go viral on TikTok.

Can I use Adobe Express for free?

Yes! The free plan Adobe Express plan gives individuals access to powerful design tools without the price tag. You can create standout social posts, videos, flyers and more using thousands of free templates, design assets, Adobe Fonts and royalty-free Adobe Stock photos. Even better: you get access to the Adobe Express TikTok video creator, basic editing tools, and 2 GB of cloud storage – all without needing a paid subscription. Check out the free plan here.