TikTok Algorithm Update: February 2025

TikTok has made some major changes to its algorithm this month, and if you want to grow your account and boost engagement, you need to adjust your content strategy accordingly. The platform is evolving fast, and staying ahead means understanding exactly what TikTok wants.

In this blog, I’m breaking down the 10 key updates you need to know and how to optimize your content for February.

1.Prioritize Searchable Content

TikTok is now heavily focused on search-based content. The platform wants creators to produce videos that answer questions and address trending topics within their niche.

Check out TikTok’s Creator Search Insights to find content gaps in your category. If people are searching for something but there’s not enough content on it, that’s your golden opportunity.

2. Focus on These 3 Content Types

For the latest update, TikTok is prioritizing three types of content:

• Green Screen Videos: Add multiple dimensions to your videos by using a green screen background. Whether it's an article or an animated backdrop, TikTok is pushing this format hard.
• Carousels: Image-based carousels with text keep people engaged longer. Make sure your carousels tell a compelling story.
• One-Minute Videos: TikTok rewards content that’s one minute or longer, but it only works if you have a great hook and storytelling.

3. Post 1-2 Videos Per Day

Gone are the days when posting multiple times a day was the norm. TikTok is now recommending 1-2 high-quality videos daily. Post one in the morning and one in the evening to get the best reach.

Make sure your content is engaging and follows TikTok’s new guidelines for longer watch time.

4. Keep Viewers Watching for 15-20 Seconds

TikTok’s algorithm is now prioritizing content where viewers stay for at least 15-20 seconds. This is a big shift from the previous focus on three-second views.

To keep people watching, use multitasking elements, do your makeup, unbox a package, or share a smoothie recipe while telling a story. The more engaging the content, the better your retention rate.

5. Short Videos Need to Loop 300%

If you’re creating shorter videos, TikTok expects viewers to watch them three times (300%) for maximum reach. That means your content must loop seamlessly.

One trick? Start your video with the ending and then let it naturally lead back to the beginning. This keeps viewers hooked and replaying your content.

6. Check If Your Topic Is Trending

Before filming a video, search TikTok to see if content on that topic has been pushed out in the past 72 hours. If the top videos are older, TikTok may not be prioritizing that topic anymore.

If you find recent trending videos on your topic, that’s a sign to go ahead and create your content.

7. Avoid Watermarks

TikTok penalizes videos with watermarks from other platforms. If you’re bringing content over from Instagram or other apps, make sure to remove the watermark using tools.

8. Always Use Text Hooks, Descriptions, and Keywords

Every video should have these three elements:

• Text Hook: Grab attention with text on the screen (e.g., "You won’t believe this trick!").
• Detailed Description: Include keywords and context about your video.
• Hashtags: Use relevant keywords as hashtags to help TikTok categorize your content.

9. Prioritize SEO for Your Content

TikTok is becoming a search engine powerhouse, and SEO is more important than ever. Use relevant keywords in your text, descriptions, and hashtags to help your content get discovered.

For example, if your video is about TikTok growth, include phrases like “TikTok growth tips”, “how to go viral on TikTok”, and “TikTok strategies.”

10. Be Patient, Content Push is Slower

TikTok is now pushing out content more slowly. You might post a video today and see it go viral weeks or even months later.

Don’t delete your content if it doesn’t perform immediately. Think long-term and stay consistent.

TikTok is always changing, but by staying informed and adapting your strategy, you can stay ahead and grow your account. If you want more tips on how to crush it on TikTok, grab my 75 Viral Hooks.

Let’s get your content in front of the right people this month!