TikTok continues to be the most viral-friendly social platform in 2025, boasting over 1.8 billion monthly active users globally (DataReportal, 2025). For marketers, creators, and businesses, TikTok offers a unique advantage: you can go viral without a big budget, as long as your content hits the right formula of value, emotion, and timing.
- 1. Educational How-To Videos
- 2. Behind-the-Scenes (BTS) Content
- 3. Trending Sounds and Hashtags
- 4. User-Generated Content (UGC) & Duets
- 5. Product Demos and Honest Reviews
- 6. Tips, Lists, and Hacks
- 7. Storytelling and Relatable Scenarios
- 8. Challenges and Hashtag Campaigns
- 9. Daily Routines or “A Day in the Life”
- 10. Myths, Mistakes & Truth Bombs
- References
But the question remains: What kind of content actually goes viral? This article breaks down high-performing content formats, offers real examples, and provides tested tips to increase your chances of reaching the coveted For You Page (FYP).
1. Educational How-To Videos
Why it works: TikTok users love fast, practical knowledge. Whether it’s beauty tips, life hacks, or financial advice, short tutorials are always in demand.
Examples:
- “3 ways to use aloe vera for glowing skin”
- “How to start freelancing in 2025”
- “Budgeting 101: Save more with this formula”
Best Practice: Start with “You didn’t know this, but…” to instantly hook the viewer.
Videos that explain a clear benefit within the first 3 seconds can boost engagement by 28% (TikTok for Business, 2025).
2. Behind-the-Scenes (BTS) Content
Why it works: Audiences crave transparency. BTS content humanises your brand and builds trust.
Examples:
- “Packing your orders with us today”
- “How we designed our new label”
- “Meet the team behind our product”
BTS footage drives higher emotional connection and repeat views—especially for small businesses.
3. Trending Sounds and Hashtags
Why it works: TikTok’s algorithm favours content using trending sounds, filters, and hashtags.
How to find trends:
- Use the TikTok Creative Center to identify trending sounds in your niche or country.
- Adapt the trend with your own spin.
Example:
If “unexpected skills” is trending, a gym brand might post: “When our trainer turns out to be a pro violinist 🎻💪”
Content using trends within 48 hours of peak performance sees up to 60% more reach (TikTok for Business, 2025).
4. User-Generated Content (UGC) & Duets
Why it works: UGC builds community and trust. Duets allow your brand to respond creatively to fan videos.
Examples:
- Repost reviews or unboxings from real customers
- Duet with a customer showing product results
- Run a giveaway asking followers to Duet your brand challenge
Brands using UGC in their content strategy see 29% higher engagement (Influencer Marketing Hub, 2025).
5. Product Demos and Honest Reviews
Why it works: People want to see products in action—not stock images. Real-world use builds credibility.
Examples:
- “Watch how this chair folds in 3 seconds”
- “Trying our mascara on oily skin in 35°C heat”
- “Unboxing and testing our smart wallet”
Keep it real, short (under 30 seconds), and highlight benefits.
6. Tips, Lists, and Hacks
Why it works: TikTok users love quick, numbered content.
Examples:
- “3 ways to save time in the morning”
- “5 SEO tips for 2025”
- “Top 3 budgeting apps I use daily”
Use attention-grabbing openers like “Don’t do this if…” or “What I wish I knew earlier…”
List-based videos are 35% more likely to be saved for future rewatching (Influencer Marketing Hub, 2025).
7. Storytelling and Relatable Scenarios
Why it works: TikTok rewards content that evokes emotion—whether humorous, nostalgic, or dramatic.
Examples:
- “I quit my 9–5 to do this…”
- “A customer just made my day…”
- “This is why I started my small business”
End with a question like “Have you ever felt like this?” to drive comments.
8. Challenges and Hashtag Campaigns
Why it works: Hashtag challenges boost discoverability and spark mass participation.
Examples:
- “Join our #MorningCoffeeChallenge”
- “Can you beat our #3MinDeclutter challenge?”
Use Hashtag Challenge Plus (available through TikTok Ads) to link products directly to the campaign.
9. Daily Routines or “A Day in the Life”
Why it works: These give a personal touch and showcase lifestyle relevance.
Examples:
- “Morning routine with our planner”
- “Day in the life of a graphic designer using our tablet”
- “Running a business from a coffee shop ☕”
Keep it casual, visually consistent, and well-paced.
10. Myths, Mistakes & Truth Bombs
Why it works: Content that surprises viewers creates stronger reactions.
Examples:
- “3 myths about collagen supplements”
- “The biggest mistake I made as a new business owner”
- “You’re brushing your teeth wrong. Here’s why…”
Pair these with bold captions like “Avoid this!” or “Stop doing this.”
Bonus Tips to Increase Virality
- Use CapCut to edit videos quickly with TikTok-friendly templates (CapCut, 2025).
- Post consistently: 3–5 times/week for algorithm momentum.
- Respond to comments to boost visibility.
- Use TrendTok Analytics to monitor hashtags and creators in your industry (TrendTok Analytics, 2025).
- Hook viewers in the first 3 seconds—always.
Note
Viral content on TikTok is no longer a guessing game. In 2025, successful videos follow clear patterns: they educate, entertain, connect, or surprise. Whether you’re a brand, freelancer, or creator, these formats will help you turn scrolls into follows—and views into conversions.
Start simple. Keep it short. Stay human.
More Read
References
CapCut. (2025). CapCut Editor for TikTok Content. https://www.capcut.com/
DataReportal. (2025). Digital 2025 Global Overview. https://datareportal.com/reports/digital-2025-global-overview-report
Influencer Marketing Hub. (2025). TikTok Marketing Benchmarks Report. https://influencermarketinghub.com/
TikTok for Business. (2025). Creative Center and Marketing Trends. https://ads.tiktok.com/business/creativecenter/
TrendTok Analytics. (2025). Trend Discovery & Creator Insights. https://trendtokanalytics.com/
