For the first time, TikTok has pulled back the curtain on how its algorithm decides which videos go viral and which get buried. While we don’t have the full blueprint, we now know that TikTok ranks content using a point-based engagement system—and understanding it can be the key to unlocking massive reach.
The 5-Point Engagement System
Every interaction on TikTok is assigned a point value:
Likes = 1 point
Comments = 2 points
Shares = 3 points
Watching to completion = 4 points
Rewatching = 5 points
The higher your engagement score, the more TikTok pushes your video to new audiences.
The Initial 300-View Test
Every video starts with a trial audience of 300 viewers. To move forward and reach a wider audience, your video must earn at least 50 engagement points in this test phase. That could mean:
50 likes (1 point each)
25 comments (2 points each)
15 shares (3 points each)
12 full watches (4 points each)
10 rewatches (5 points each)
If your video meets the threshold, TikTok distributes it to a larger audience. If not, it gets deprioritised.
Why Rewatching & Sharing Matter Most
Rewatches (5 points) and shares (3 points) have the biggest impact on reach.
The more times people replay your video, the more TikTok sees it as high-value content.
If users share your video, TikTok interprets it as content worth spreading.
This is why short, looping videos tend to perform exceptionally well. The faster someone can rewatch your content, the more points you rack up.
Top 3 Tips to Hack the TikTok Algorithm
#1 Create Hook-Worthy Content
Your first 3 seconds are everything. If viewers scroll past, your video is dead in the water. Use bold visuals, intriguing text overlays, or unexpected moments to keep them watching.
#2 Make Your Videos Loopable
Since rewatches hold the most weight, design your content to seamlessly loop. This could mean cutting the ending to blend into the start or creating content so engaging that people naturally want to replay it
#3 Encourage Engagement
Want more comments, likes, and shares? Ask for them. Simple calls to action like “Drop a 🔥 emoji if you agree” or “Tag a friend who needs to see this” can skyrocket your engagement points.
"Every video starts with a trial audience of 300 viewers. To move forward and reach a wider audience, your video must earn at least 50 engagement points"
The Bigger Picture: What Else Affects TikTok’s Algorithm?
While the 5-point system is crucial, TikTok’s algorithm considers other factors, including:
Niche relevance – Does your video match user interests?
Content quality – Are your visuals, edits, and sound on point?
User behaviour – Do viewers engage with multiple videos from your profile?
Moderation & shadowbanning – TikTok may suppress or boost content based on its guidelines.
"If your video meets the threshold, TikTok distributes it to a larger audience. If not, it gets deprioritised."
Conclusion
TikTok’s algorithm rewards engagement—especially rewatches, shares, and comments. If you want your content to succeed, create short, compelling videos that keep people hooked and coming back for more.
At the end of the day, your audience controls your success. The more they interact, the more TikTok pushes your content. So, experiment, optimise, and watch your reach grow!
Need help mastering TikTok marketing? Rebel Creatives has your back—let’s make your brand go viral!
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