The search bar on TikTok allows users to search for specific videos, sounds, hashtags, or creators on the platform. It is a key feature that makes discovering new content and accounts easier. When you tap on the search icon on TikTok, a search bar appears at the top of the screen where you can type in keywords to find relevant videos and accounts.
Searching for Videos
The most common use of the TikTok search bar is to find videos based on specific keywords. For example, you can search for “#funny” to find funny TikTok videos, “dance tutorial” to find dance videos, or even just search for a specific song name to find TikToks using that sound.
TikTok’s search algorithm will display results based on a combination of factors, including relevance to the keywords, popularity of videos, and your own viewing history. The more specific your search term, the better the results will be.
You can use both single keywords or phrases when searching TikTok. Searching broader terms like “food” will show you a wide variety of food-related videos, while searching something more specific like “easy 3-ingredient desserts” will give you much more tailored results.
Narrowing Down Video Search Results
To narrow down the video results from the search bar, you can utilize some of these tips:
- Add multiple keywords – try searching for something like “comedy skit tutorial” rather than just “funny video”
- Filter by hashtag – tap on a relevant hashtag from the results to only see videos using that hashtag
- Filter by account – tap on an account’s profile pic to see only their content
- Sort by most popular or most recent – change up your results by toggling these filters
- Adjust date range – filter your search to only see videos from the past week, month, or year
Taking the time to refine your keywords and filter the search results will help you discover new videos and creators much quicker.
Finding Sounds
In addition to videos, TikTok’s search bar allows you to discover new sounds and music being used on the platform. Just search for a song title, lyric, or any keyword related to the soundtrack you’re looking for.
The results will showcase TikTok videos where that sound is used. You can tap on any video to hear the full sound. From there, you can save it to easily add it to your own videos later.
Searching by lyrics is one of the best ways to find trending sounds. TikTok’s huge music library means finding a specific song can be difficult otherwise. Using a unique lyric will typically surface the exact sound you want.
Uncovering Viral Sounds
The search bar makes locating viral sounds a breeze too. Try searching for terms like:
- “viral sound”
- “popular song”
- “trending sound”
TikTok will automatically display results of the top trending sounds being used on millions of videos. This is a quick way to find catchy music or audio clips to utilize in your own content.
Searching Hashtags
Along with sounds, you can also search for specific hashtags using the search bar. This allows you to dive deep into a niche or trending topic on TikTok.
For example, search for “#pranks” to find top prank videos or “#foodie” to find food content. You can also search hashtag terms like “#fyp” (for you page) to see videos curated for user home feeds.
Searching by hashtag is great for discovering popular trends and tropes associated with that keyword. It helps provide video inspiration and ideas tailored to specific interests.
Finding Trending Hashtags
To find the latest trending hashtags, try searching:
- “trending hashtags”
- “viral hashtags”
- “top hashtags”
These searches will display hashtag ideas being used on millions of current videos. Using trending hashtags helps increase views and engagement on your own TikToks.
Searching Accounts
You can also utilize TikTok’s search feature to find specific accounts. Just search for a username, account name, or even a description keyword like “beauty tips” to find associated accounts.
This is useful for finding popular creators in a niche, or locating accounts you just can’t remember the exact username for. It’s an easy way to rediscover accounts you want to follow or view more content from.
Finding Verified Accounts
To quickly find officially verified accounts, try searching:
- “verified accounts”
- “popular creators”
- “top accounts”
These searches will display TikTok’s top creators who have a blue verified badge. Following these accounts can help you discover more trending content.
Optimizing Your Search Terms
To really maximize the search feature, keep these tips in mind:
- Use natural language – search full questions or phrases like “how to cook chicken parmesan”
- Try different keywords – rearrange or substitute words to find new results
- Filter search results – tap hashtags, accounts, dates, etc to drill down
- Follow hashtags – this customizes your For You feed with desired content
- Save sounds – makes them easier to find and use later
- Use trending terms – integrate viral hashtags or sounds to increase engagement
Leveraging the search bar is key for constantly discovering new content and accounts on TikTok. Just remember, the more specific your keywords, the better your results will be.
Troubleshooting Search Problems
Sometimes you may have trouble finding the videos, sounds, or accounts you want using the TikTok search bar. Here are some troubleshooting tips:
- Check spelling – make sure you spelled keywords, usernames, or hashtags correctly
- Simplify keywords – try removing hyphens, slashes, or special characters
- Use different keywords – rephrase or use synonyms for better results
- Double-check restrictions – certain songs or content may be restricted in your region
- Report bugs – contact TikTok if search isn’t working properly after troubleshooting
- Update the app – new versions of the app may improve search functionality
With over a billion monthly users, TikTok has an extensive amount of content. Using specific keywords and filtering search options will help you cut through the noise to find exactly what you’re looking for.
Understanding how to best leverage the platform’s search capabilities takes some practice. But mastering it is key for discovering and creating top content that resonates.
