How the TikTok Algorithm Works

Let me demystify the TikTok algorithm for you. It's not some mysterious force working against authors - it's actually a sophisticated system designed to show people content they'll love. Once you understand how it works, you can make it work for you.

The Algorithm's One Job

The algorithm has a simple goal: keep people on the app. It does this by showing users content they're likely to watch, engage with, and enjoy. Every action you take teaches it what to show you (and who to show your content to).

How TikTok Tests Your Content

When you post a video, here's what happens:

The First Wave (0-50 views)

TikTok shows your video to a small group. These aren't random people - they're users who've engaged with similar content. The algorithm watches everything:

• Completion rate (did they watch the whole video?)
• Engagement (likes, comments, shares)
• Rewatches (huge signal of interest)
• Profile visits (did they check out who you are?)

The Expansion Phase

If your video performs well in the first wave, TikTok expands its reach. Good performance means:

• 30%+ completion rate
• 5-10% engagement rate
• Comments and shares (weighted heavily)

The FYP Push

Videos that excel get pushed to the For You Page of users who don't follow you. This is where viral potential lives. But remember: viral isn't the goal. Finding YOUR readers is.

The Signals That Matter Most

Watch Time is King If people watch your entire video, that's gold. A 15-second video watched completely beats a 3-minute video abandoned after 30 seconds.

Shares > Likes When someone shares your video, they're saying "someone else needs to see this." The algorithm loves that.

Comments = Conversation Comments signal that your content sparked something. Reply to comments quickly - it boosts engagement.

Profile Visits = Interest When viewers check your profile after watching, you've hooked them. Make sure your profile converts them to followers.

What Hurts Your Reach

Quick Scrolls

If people scroll past within 1-2 seconds, the algorithm notes that as negative feedback.

"Not Interested" Flags

When users hold and select "not interested," it significantly impacts that video and similar future content.

Violation Reports

Even false reports can temporarily impact reach while TikTok reviews.

Inconsistent Posting

The algorithm favors active creators. Posting once a month confuses it about what you create.

Working WITH the Algorithm

Niche Down (But Not Too Much)

The algorithm needs to understand what you create. If you post about fantasy books one day and cooking the next, it struggles to find your audience.

Hook Fast

You have 3 seconds. Lead with intrigue, emotion, or a strong statement. "The book that destroyed me last night..." beats "Hi, I want to talk about a book."

Optimize for Rewatches

Create loops, reveal information gradually, or pack so much value that people watch twice.

Post When YOUR Audience is Active

The algorithm considers initial performance. Posting when your audience is scrolling gives you better first-wave results.

The Truth About Shadowbanning

Real shadowbanning is rare. What usually happens:

• A video underperforms (normal - happens to everyone)
• You changed content style suddenly
• You posted something that got flagged for review
• Your account is new and building trust

If you think you're shadowbanned, keep posting quality content consistently. The algorithm has a short memory.

My Algorithm Breakthrough

After six months of struggle, I discovered my issue: I was creating content I thought would go viral instead of content my ideal readers wanted. When I shifted to serving my specific audience, the algorithm started working for me.

Your Algorithm Action Plan

1. Define Your Content Pillars: What 3-4 topics will you consistently create about?
2. Study Your Analytics: Which videos perform best? Make more like those.
3. Engage Authentically: Comment on other BookTok videos. The algorithm sees you as part of the community.
4. Be Patient: It takes 20-30 videos for the algorithm to really understand your content.

Remember: The algorithm isn't your enemy. It's a matchmaker trying to connect your content with people who'll love it. Give it clear signals about who you serve, and it will find them for you.

Next, let's talk about warming up your account - because whether it's brand new or been dormant, you need to signal to TikTok that you're ready to be an active creator.