Instructions
So, you want to become a TikTok creator? Awesome! TikTok is a fantastic place for creativity, but a little planning can make your videos stand out. This guide will walk you through the steps, from brainstorming an idea to posting your first video safely.
Part 1: What's Your Vibe? Brainstorm Your Idea
The best TikToks are the ones that are authentic to you. What do you enjoy? What are you good at? What makes you laugh? Use the space below to brainstorm some ideas. Try to think of at least two ideas for each category!
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Things I'm an expert on (or learning about): (e.g., skateboarding, painting, a video game, baking)
1. ____________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________ -
Things that make me laugh: (e.g., funny things my pet does, relatable school moments, silly jokes)
1. ____________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________ -
Skills I can teach or show off: (e.g., a cool card trick, how to solve a Rubik's cube, a dance move)
1. ____________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________ -
A "Day in the Life" or "GRWM" (Get Ready With Me) idea: (e.g., GRWM for a soccer game, a day in my life on Saturday)
1. ____________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________
Part 2: Talk the Talk - TikTok Lingo
To navigate TikTok, you need to know the language. Match the term on the left with its correct definition on the right by writing the correct letter in the blank.
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Terms 1. _____ FYP 2. _____ Stitch 3. _____ POV 4. _____ Duet 5. _____ Sound 6. _____ OOTD |
Definitions A. "Point of View." Videos filmed as if you are seeing the world through the character's eyes. B. Your video appears side-by-side with another user's video, playing at the same time. C. "For You Page." The main feed of algorithmically-chosen videos TikTok thinks you'll like. D. "Outfit of the Day." A popular video format for showcasing your personal style. E. The audio clip, either music or an original recording, that plays during a video. F. A feature that lets you clip and integrate a moment from another user's video into your own. |
Part 3: Plan Your Video - The Storyboard
Great videos tell a story, even if it's only 15 seconds long! A storyboard helps you plan your shots. In the boxes below, sketch or describe the three main parts of a video idea you brainstormed in Part 1.
| Beginning: The Hook | Middle: The Main Action | End: The Payoff / Punchline |
| How will you grab the viewer's attention in the first 3 seconds? | What happens here? What is the core of your video? | How does it end? A funny reveal? A finished product? A question? |
Sound/Music I'll use: ________________________________
Text I'll add on screen: ________________________________
Part 4: Write the Perfect Caption
Your caption is your chance to add context and engage your audience. A good caption often has three things: a short hook, relevant hashtags, and a question for the comments.
Scenario: You just posted a time-lapse video of you drawing your favorite cartoon character.
Write a great caption for this video below:
Part 5: Be Smart & Stay Safe Online
Being a creator is fun, but staying safe is the #1 priority. Read the statements below and circle True or False.
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It's a good idea to post your full name, school, and home address so your friends can find you easily.
True / False -
Setting your account to "Private" means only followers you approve can see your videos.
True / False -
If someone leaves a mean comment, the best thing to do is to post an angry video about them.
True / False -
Using a trending sound or hashtag can help more people discover your video.
True / False
ANSWER KEY
Part 2: Talk the Talk - TikTok Lingo
1. C - FYP
2. F - Stitch
3. A - POV
4. B - Duet
5. E - Sound
6. D - OOTD
Part 4: Write the Perfect Caption
Answers will vary, but a good answer should look something like this:
Example: Finally finished this drawing of SpongeBob! âœï¸ It took forever but I love how it turned out. Who should I draw next? #drawing #art #spongebob #timelapse #fyp
Part 5: Be Smart & Stay Safe Online
1. False. Never share private, personal information like your full name, address, phone number, or school name online. This is called "doxxing" and can be very dangerous.
2. True. A private account gives you full control over who sees your content and follows you.
3. False. The best response to a mean comment is no response. You can delete the comment and/or block the user. Engaging with bullies often makes the situation worse. Always prioritize your mental well-being.
4. True. The TikTok algorithm promotes content that uses popular trends, sounds, and hashtags, making them a great tool for discovery.