Mavericks Documentation

TikTok Content Specifications

TikTok is primarily designed for vertical video content, though it does support other aspect ratios.

- Parameter	Specification
Resolution	1080 x 1920 pixels (minimum 540 x 960 pixels)
Aspect Ratio	9:16 (vertical preferred), 1:1, or 16:9
File Format	MP4 or MOV
Codec	Video: H.264 or H.265; Audio: AAC
Maximum File Size	500 MB
Video Length	5 seconds to 10 minutes
Bitrate	Minimum 516 kbps
Audio Loudness	Target -14 LUFS integrated with True Peak of -1 dBTP
Title Safe Area	Leave 150 pixels at top and bottom, 50 pixels on sides (safe zone: 980 x 1620 pixels)

- Parameter	Specification
Size	1080 x 1920 pixels
File Format	JPG or PNG

For optimal quality on TikTok, follow these technical guidelines:

Video Compression: H.264 or H.265 (HEVC) High Profile (best balance of quality and compatibility)
Audio Format: AAC at 128-256 kbps (clear audio is essential for engagement)
Lighting: Bright, even lighting (subjects should be well-lit)
Stabilization: Use tripod or gimbal (shaky footage performs poorly)
Export Settings: Match TikTok specs exactly (avoid letterboxing or pillarboxing)
Audio Loudness: Target -14 LUFS integrated with peaks not exceeding -1 dBTP
Safe Zones: Keep important content away from the top and bottom of the frame

Creating effective TikTok videos requires understanding the optimal structure:

Hook (0:00-0:02): Immediate attention grab in the first 2 seconds
Setup (0:02-0:05): Provide context for your content
Main Content (0:05-0:25): Deliver your core message or entertainment
Punchline/Reveal (0:25-0:30): Provide a payoff or conclusion
Call to Action (last 0:03): Ask for follows, likes, or comments

TikTok's algorithm favors certain content types. Consider incorporating these formats:

Challenges: Participate in viral challenges (dance routines, transformation challenges)
Tutorials: Create quick how-to content (30-second recipes, makeup tips)
Behind-the-scenes: Share authentic, unpolished moments (workplace insights, creative process)
Duets: Create side-by-side reactions to other creators' content
Transitions: Incorporate creative visual effects (outfit changes, location switches)
Sound syncs: Lip sync to trending audio (dialogue from movies, viral sounds)

Understanding TikTok's algorithm can help maximize your reach:

Completion Rate (Very High): Create short, engaging content viewed to completion
Engagement Velocity (Very High): Generate quick likes, comments, shares
Watch Time (High): Create content that viewers watch multiple times
Shares (High): Create shareable, relatable content
Comments (Medium-High): Ask questions, create debate-worthy content
Follows from Video (Medium): Include clear CTA for follows
Account Activity (Medium): Post consistently (1-3 times daily)

- Hashtag Type	Number to Use	Purpose	Examples
Trending	1-2	Increase discoverability	#fyp, #foryoupage, current challenges
Niche	2-3	Target specific audiences	#smallbusiness, #veganrecipes
Branded	1	Build brand recognition	Your unique brand hashtag
Location	0-1	Target local audience	#nyc, #londontiktok
Total	3-5	Optimal hashtag count	Don't overuse hashtags

- Issue	Cause and Solution
Low Views	Cause: Poor hook, wrong hashtags. Solution: Improve first 2 seconds, research trending hashtags, post during peak hours
Video Quality Issues	Cause: Poor lighting, compression. Solution: Use natural light, export at higher bitrate, film with latest phone model, use H.265 codec if available
Audio Sync Problems	Cause: Variable frame rate. Solution: Use constant frame rate when exporting, record directly in TikTok app, update app to latest version
Content Cropping	Cause: Not respecting safe areas. Solution: Keep important elements within safe zone (980 x 1620 pixels), preview in TikTok before publishing, use templates that respect platform dimensions