how does tiktok's algorithm work?

TikTok's algorithm is a recommendation system that determines what content will be displayed on each user's For You Page (FYP). It's designed to offer personalized content based on user interactions and preferences. However, the full extent of how the TikTok algorithm works is proprietary and not fully disclosed to the public[1][2][4].

Key factors that influence the TikTok algorithm include:

1. **User Interactions**: These include the ways viewers respond to and engage with content. User interactions include positive feedback, such as following a creator or liking, sharing, rewatching, or commenting on a video. The algorithm also pays close attention to what you scroll past quickly and what draws you in, comparing videos that interest you to ones you haven’t seen yet[1][2][4].

2. **Device and Account Settings**: These include language preference, country setting, type of mobile device, and categories of interest selected by the user[2].

3. **Video Information**: This includes details about the videos, such as the details of the video itself, the details of the audio track used, and the hashtags used[3][4].

4. **Content Quality**: While not explicitly stated, the quality of the content can also influence its reach. High-quality content that is engaging and relevant is more likely to be promoted by the algorithm[6].

The algorithm is a living computation, meaning it adapts and learns from user behavior over time. The more a user interacts with the platform, the better the algorithm gets to know their preferences, and the more personalized the content becomes[1][4]. It's also worth noting that the algorithm won't recommend duplicated content, content you've already seen, or content flagged as spam[2].

Citations:

[1] The TikTok Algorithm, Explained: How to Go Viral https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/tik-tok-algorithm-explained-75091/

[2] The TikTok Algorithm Explained + Tips to Go Viral https://blog.hootsuite.com/tiktok-algorithm/

[3] How to Work With the TikTok Algorithm in 2024 https://buffer.com/resources/tiktok-algorithm/

[4] TikTok Algorithm Guide: The TikTok Algorithm Exposed & Explained https://neilpatel.com/blog/tiktok-algorithm/

[5] How TikTok Reads Your Mind (Published 2021) https://www.nytimes.com/2021/12/05/business/media/tiktok-algorithm.html

[6] How the TikTok algorithm works: Everything you need to know https://searchengineland.com/how-tiktok-algorithm-works-390229

[7] How Does the TikTok Algorithm Work? https://influencermarketinghub.com/tiktok-algorithm/

[8] How Does TikTok's Algorithm Work in 2023? | Later https://later.com/blog/tiktok-algorithm/