Using the right hashtags on TikTok can make a huge difference in how far your videos go. Hashtags help categorize content, improve visibility, and connect you with the right audience. But with millions of videos being uploaded daily, the big question is: Which hashtags should you use on TikTok to grow your reach and get noticed?
Here’s a simple guide to help you understand how to use hashtags effectively — and which ones to focus on.
Why hashtags matter on TikTok
Hashtags are more than just trends or labels — they’re search tools that help users find content that interests them. TikTok’s algorithm also uses hashtags to understand the context of your video and decide who to show it to. That means choosing the right hashtags can directly influence how many people see your content — especially on the For You Page (FYP).
1. Use trending hashtags
Trending hashtags are those that are currently popular on the platform. You can find them by checking the Discover tab or the trending section on your For You Page.
Examples include:
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#foryou
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#fyp
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#viral
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#trend
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#explorepage
Using these hashtags increases your chance of being featured on the FYP, though they are very competitive. Combine them with more specific tags for better results.
2. Use niche-specific hashtags
Niche hashtags connect you with people who are interested in your type of content. These are especially useful for building a targeted and loyal following.
Examples:
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#fitnesstips (for fitness creators)
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#makeuptutorial (for beauty content)
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#booktok (for book lovers)
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#learnontiktok (for educational content)
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#foodtok (for cooking videos)
By using these, you reach people who are more likely to engage, follow, and come back for more.
3. Create your own branded hashtag
If you’re building a personal brand or representing a business, consider creating your own hashtag. This helps build identity and encourages followers to use it too.
Examples:
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#YourNameChallenge
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#MyBrandStyle
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#CookingWithAnna
Branded hashtags are great for launching challenges, giveaways, or campaigns.
4. Combine broad and specific hashtags
A good hashtag strategy mixes popular, niche, and branded hashtags. Here’s a sample combination for a fitness video:
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#foryou
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#workout
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#legday
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#fitnesstips
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#myfitnessjourney
This mix increases the chance of both wide exposure and reaching a targeted audience.
5. Avoid using too many hashtags
Unlike some platforms, TikTok’s caption space is limited (up to 2,200 characters). Using too many hashtags may clutter your post and confuse the algorithm. Stick to 3 to 5 relevant hashtags per video for the best results.
6. Test and analyze
There’s no one-size-fits-all formula. The best way to know which hashtags work for you is to test different combinations and monitor your video performance. TikTok Pro Account (which is free) offers analytics where you can track which videos perform best — and what hashtags they used.
Bonus tip: Use hashtags in comments or pinned replies
If you run out of space in your caption, you can drop additional hashtags in the comments and pin them. This keeps your description clean while still giving TikTok more context about your video.
