How to Add Text on TikTok: All The Possible Ways

TikTok is more than just short-form videos—it’s a creative playground. Adding text to your TikTok videos enhances storytelling and boosts engagement and accessibility. Whether you’re sharing a funny moment, delivering tips, or narrating a story, text helps get your message across clearly.

In this guide, we’ll explore all the possible ways to add text on TikTok, from simple captions to advanced editing tricks that make your content stand out.

 Why Add Text on TikTok?

Before diving into the how-to, here’s why text matters on TikTok:

• Captures attention: Viewers often scroll fast—text helps hook them.

• Adds clarity: Useful for tutorials, commentary, or dialogue.

• Improves accessibility: Helps users who are deaf or hard of hearing.

• Supports silent viewing: Many users watch videos on mute.

📝 Method 1: Add Manual Text to Videos

This is the most popular way to add text, perfect for adding dialogue, explanations, or reactions.

Steps:

1. Open TikTok and record or upload your video.

2. Tap the checkmark (✓) to go to the editing screen.

3. Tap the “Text” button (Aa icon) at the bottom.

4. Type your desired text.

5. Choose your font, color, alignment, and background.

6. Tap “Done” when you’re finished typing.

7. Drag to move the text around the screen.

⏱️ Method 2: Set Text Duration

Make your text appear or disappear at specific times for better storytelling.

Steps:

1. After adding the text, tap on the text box.

2. Select “Set duration”.

3. Use the slider to choose when the text should appear and disappear.

4. Tap the play button to preview, then hit ✓ when done.

💡 Tip: Use multiple text boxes with different durations to guide viewers through your video.

🧠 Method 3: Use Auto-Captions

If your video includes speech, TikTok can generate subtitles automatically.

Steps:

1. Record or upload your video.

2. On the editing screen, tap “Captions” on the right-hand menu.

3. TikTok will automatically transcribe your speech.

4. Review and edit any mistakes in the text.

5. Tap “Save” when you’re done.

✅ Great for accessibility and engagement, especially for educational or storytelling videos.

📱 Method 4: Use On-Screen Text Prompts

You can also use text to create call-to-actions or engage your audience directly.

Examples:

• “Double tap if you agree!”

• “Wait till the end…”

• “Which one would you choose? Comment below!”

Use the text tool the same way as described in Method 1, but focus on interactive language that encourages engagement.

🔧 Method 5: Use Third-Party Video Editing Apps

Want more control over text styles, animations, and timing? Try editing your videos outside TikTok using tools like:

• CapCut (by TikTok) – Free and powerful

• InShot – User-friendly with advanced text effects

• VN Editor – Great for timeline editing

• Canva Video Editor – Ideal for branded content

Once edited, you can upload the final video directly to TikTok.

✅ Bonus Tips for Using Text on TikTok

• Be brief: Keep text short and snappy.

• Use readable fonts: Avoid overly fancy fonts that are hard to read.

• High contrast: Use light text on dark backgrounds (or vice versa).

• Align with your audio: Match your text to lyrics, beats, or dialogue.

• Test for timing: Make sure the text is visible long enough for users to read.

🔚Thoughts

Adding text to your TikTok videos is a simple but powerful way to connect with your audience. Whether you’re guiding viewers through a tutorial, delivering punchlines, or simply captioning a story, text can dramatically improve how your message is received.

Now that you know all the ways to add text on TikTok, try mixing and matching them in your next video to keep your content fresh and engaging!