Cracking the TikTok Algorithm: How the New 5-Point Engagement System Works
TikTok's algorithm has always been a bit of a puzzle, but we finally have some inside info on how TikTok decides which videos get pushed to a bigger audience. They’ve rolled out a 5-point engagement system that scores your content based on how people interact with it. If you’re aiming for viral status, knowing how this system works is a game-changer.
Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to understand, and, more importantly, helps you get those views rolling in!
What Is TikTok’s 5-Point Engagement System?
TikTok’s algorithm now assigns point values to different types of engagement, with some interactions weighing more than others. Here’s how it works:
Likes = 1 point each
Comments = 2 points each
Shares = 3 points each
Full Video Watches = 4 points each
Rewatches = 5 points each
At first glance, this might not seem like a big deal, but these numbers have a huge impact on how TikTok decides which videos to push to a larger audience.
The First 300 Viewers Are Critical
When you post a video, TikTok doesn’t immediately send it to the masses. Instead, it tests the video with a small audience of around 300 users. During this test phase, TikTok measures how much engagement your video gets. To move beyond this initial group and reach a broader audience, your video needs to rack up at least 50 points.
This means that some interactions are much more valuable than others. Here’s an example:
If you get 50 likes, that’s only 50 points (which is just enough to pass the test phase).
But if just 10 people rewatch your video, that’s 50 points right there!
Or if 5 people share your video, that’s already 15 points (and that’s just from shares alone, if those people also like or comment, the total keeps climbing).
The takeaway? Not all interactions are equal, and the smartest strategy is to optimize for shares and rewatches rather than just likes.
What This Means for Creators
Understanding this system changes the way you should approach content creation. Here’s how to make sure your videos get maximum engagement:
1. Create Rewatchable Content
Since rewatches are worth the most points (5 each), you want to make videos that people watch more than once. Some easy ways to do this:
Loop your videos seamlessly – TikTok videos autoplay, so if your ending transitions smoothly into the beginning, viewers might not even realize they’ve rewatched it. Gstaad Guy knows a thing or two on this:
Add hidden details – Include something subtle that people will want to go back and see again.
Use fast-paced edits – If your video moves quickly, viewers may need to watch it again to catch everything.
2. Encourage Shares
Shares are worth 3 points each, so getting people to send your video to friends or post it to their stories can give you a big boost. Ways to encourage shares:
Make relatable content – People share things that reflect their experiences, so tap into trends, emotions, and common struggles.
Create content with shareable value – Tips, hacks, tutorials, or shocking facts are great for this.
Use CTA’s (Call to Actions) – Tell your audience, “Tag a friend who needs to see this!” or “Send this to someone who can relate!”
3. Get People to Watch the Whole Video
A full video watch is worth 4 points, so keeping people engaged until the end is crucial. To do this:
Hook them in the first 3 seconds – Attention spans are short, so start with something eye-catching or intriguing.
Tease the payoff – Make viewers curious about what happens next by saying things like “Wait until the end to see this!”
Keep it short and snappy – The shorter your video, the more likely people are to watch the entire thing.
4. Boost Comments with Engagement Tricks
Comments are worth 2 points each, which means the more people comment, the more TikTok pushes your video. Encourage comments by:
Asking open-ended questions – “What do you think about this?” “Have you ever experienced this?”
Using controversial or hot takes – This sparks debates and discussions, which lead to more comments.
Replying to comments – When you respond to comments, it keeps the conversation going and encourages even more engagement.
5. Don’t Just Chase Likes
Likes are the easiest engagement to get, but they’re also worth the least amount of points (1 each). While they help, relying on likes alone won’t be enough to get your video to a larger audience. Focus on the higher-value interactions instead.
Does This Mean Likes Don’t Matter?
Not exactly. While likes are worth the least points, they still help signal interest. More likes mean TikTok sees that people enjoy your video, which could lead to better reach. However, if you’re only getting likes and not many comments, shares, or rewatches, your video may struggle to get promoted.
Final Thoughts: Play the Algorithm Smart
The new TikTok 5-point system gives us a much clearer picture of how videos gain traction. It’s not just about getting views; it’s about getting the right kinds of engagement. If you want to grow on TikTok:
Prioritize rewatchable and shareable content.
Encourage full video views with strong hooks and payoffs.
Boost comments by sparking discussions and asking questions.
Don’t rely just on likes - they’re helpful but not the biggest factor.
At the end of the day, TikTok’s algorithm is always evolving, but right now, this 5-point system is your best guide to cracking the code. So go experiment, tweak your content strategy, and start racking up those engagement points!