How to Create TikTok Short Videos in Easy Steps

Want to know how to make short videos for TikTok? Discover step-by-step instructions for creating engaging TikTok content that captures attention and grows your audience.

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tiktok short videos
CapCut
CapCut
Jun 16, 2025
11 min(s)

Creating TikTok short videos is an exciting way to express yourself and engage with a global audience. Whether you're looking to showcase your talent, share a message, or promote a product, TikTok offers a dynamic platform to reach millions. By following these steps, you can produce engaging and professional-looking videos that stand out on this popular social media platform.

Make short videos on TikTok by following the steps outlined in this article. You will learn how to use editing tools and brainstorm ideas to create engaging videos. Get ready to step up your TikTok game with these simple yet effective tips.

Table of content
  1. 6 popular TikTok video styles
  2. How to make a short video on TikTok
  3. How to add music and effects to your TikTok video
  4. How to combine photos into TikTok videos
  5. How to make short TikTok videos with AI tools
  6. How to edit TikTok short videos with the CapCut mobile app
  7. How to make short videos on TikTok go viral
  8. Conclusion
  9. FAQs

6 popular TikTok video styles

From trend-setting challenge videos to interactive TikTok live streams, the platform offers a diverse array of creative expressions. Here's a look at some of TikTok's most popular video styles:

    1
  1. Trend-setting challenge videos

Trend-setting challenge videos are a staple of TikTok, where users create and participate in various challenges. These videos often go viral quickly, encouraging others to join in and create their versions. Challenges can range from dance routines and fitness challenges to creative art projects, fostering a sense of community and creativity.

    2
  1. Dynamic dance videos

Dynamic dance videos are immensely popular on TikTok. These videos feature users performing choreographed routines to trending music tracks. These videos highlight the user's dance skills and creativity, often inspiring viewers to learn and perform the dances themselves. Dance trends frequently go viral, making them a great way to gain followers.

    3
  1. Entertaining lip-sync videos

Entertaining lip-sync videos involve users mouthing the words to songs, movie dialogues, or comedic scripts. These videos allow users to express their personality and humor, making them relatable and shareable. Lip-sync videos are perfect for users who enjoy acting and want to engage their audience with familiar content.

    4
  1. Hilarious short funny TikTok videos

TikTok's funny short videos are designed to make viewers laugh. These videos often include jokes, pranks, or funny situations and are typically short and to the point. Creating funny content is an effective way to attract followers and encourage sharing, as humor is universally appreciated.

    5
  1. Engaging collaboration videos

Engaging collaboration videos involve multiple TikTok users working together to create content. These videos can be duets or group projects that require coordination and teamwork. Collaboration videos are an excellent way to network with other creators, showcase combined real-time creativity, and reach new audiences.

    6
  1. Interactive TikTok live streams.

Interactive TikTok live streams allow users to broadcast live videos to their followers. During a live stream, users can interact with their audience in real time through comments and reactions. Live streams are great for Q&A sessions, behind-the-scenes content, or live performances, fostering a sense of community and loyalty.

How to make a short video on TikTok

Creating short videos on TikTok is a straightforward process that can help you engage with a wide audience. Follow these steps to make your short videos for TikTok:

    STEP 1
  1. Access TikTok's video creation feature

Open the TikTok app on your smartphone. Then, tap the "Create" button, indicated by the plus sign at the bottom, to start making videos.

    STEP 2
  1. Choose your video duration (15s, 60s, 3m)

Before you start recording, decide on the length of your video. TikTok offers several options for video durations: 15 seconds, 60 seconds, or 3 minutes. Swipe to select the desired recording length that best suits your content.

    STEP 3
  1. Record your video

Activate the recording by clicking the red "Record" button. Hold down the button while you film your video. You can also use the timer feature to set up a countdown before the recording starts, allowing you to get into position. TikTok lets you record multiple clips, so feel free to stop and start as needed.

How to make a short video on TikTok
    STEP 4
  1. Manage video length and clips

After recording, you can manage the length and sequence of your clips. TikTok's built-in tools allow you to trim each clip to the desired length and rearrange the order of your clips. This step ensures that your video flows smoothly and fits within the chosen duration.

    STEP 5
  1. Edit your video with TikTok's built-in tools

Enhance your video using TikTok's editing tools. You can add trending sounds, filters, green screen effects, stickers, emojis, voiceovers, and captions. TikTok often recommends soundtracks based on your video's content, but you can also use the search bar to find other suitable sound effects or songs.

    STEP 6
  1. Finish editing and review

Once you've finished editing, tap "Next" to proceed to the video publishing settings. Here, you can add hashtags and descriptions and select settings like "Allow Duet" or "Allow Stitch," which lets other users interact with your video. Review your video one last time to ensure everything looks good, then tap "Post" to publish it.

How to make a short video on TikTok

How to add music and effects to your TikTok video

Elevate your TikTok video by adding the perfect soundtrack and effects. Follow these simple steps to enhance your content:

    STEP 1
  1. Access the TikTok app and select the Plus (+) button

To begin making a video, launch TikTok and press the plus sign at the bottom. A video creation interface will open.

    STEP 2
  1. Add sound using the Add Sound feature

You can select the music or sound you wish to utilize before you begin recording. To access the vast sound and music library on TikTok, tap the "Add Sound" icon located at the top of the screen. Choose the ideal track for your video by navigating through the available options or using the search bar. Your chosen sound will then be incorporated into your video.

Click on add sound and choose sound for your TikTok short video
    STEP 3
  1. Record with music, add effects, and finalize

With your sound selected, hold the red "Record" button to start filming. TikTok will play the sound while you record, allowing you to sync your actions with the music. After recording, use TikTok's editing tools to add effects, filters, and transitions. These features can enhance your video and make it more engaging. Once you're satisfied with your video, tap "Next," review your settings, and tap "Post" to share it.

How to combine photos into TikTok videos

Transform your photos into engaging TikTok videos with ease. Here's how:

    STEP 1
  1. Start with the Plus (+) button and select Upload

To start a new video, launch the TikTok app and tap the Plus (+) button. Rather than making a video, you can choose pictures from your camera roll by selecting the "Upload" option.

    STEP 2
  1. Choose photos and arrange them

Select the photos you want to include in your video. Tap "Select multiple" to choose several images and arrange them in the order you want them to appear. Note that you cannot rearrange the photos once they are uploaded, so make sure they are in the correct order before proceeding.

    STEP 3
  1. Add music, effects, and captions

Tap "Next" to upload your selected photos. When you view your images in video mode, they will play in the order that you have chosen. Switch to Photo Mode if you prefer a slideshow format. Use the editing tools on the right sidebar to crop images and add filters, stickers, trending sounds, and text. These enhancements can bring your photo-based video to life and make it more engaging.

    STEP 4
  1. Post your photo-based video

After adding all the enhancements, choose a cover for your video, add hashtags, and adjust settings like "Allow Duet," "Allow Stitch," and "Allow comments." You can also tag other users if desired. Once you've reviewed everything, tap "Post" to share your photo-based video with your TikTok audience.

Making interesting TikTok videos with live recordings or images will be made easier if you follow these suggestions.

How to combine photos into TikTok videos

How to make short TikTok videos with AI tools

The effectiveness and caliber of your TikTok videos can be greatly improved by incorporating AI technologies into your production process. CapCut desktop video editor offers advanced features that streamline the process of creating engaging short clips for TikTok. Particularly, its feature to convert long videos into shorts automatically identifies key highlights, suggests the best moments to clip, and helps you quickly transform longer videos into TikTok-ready shorts.

The interface of CapCut desktop video editor - the best software to edit YouTube Shorts

Create TikTok short videos in 4 steps

Ensure you have the latest version of CapCut installed on your PC. If it's not installed yet, click the button below to download it. Then, follow the steps outlined below:

    STEP 1
  1. Access the "Long video to shorts"

Launch the CapCut desktop app and find the "Long video to shorts" tool on the main screen. Click it to enter the workspace where you'll start editing your video into Shorts.

Accessing the long video to shorts tool in the CapCut desktop video editor
    STEP 2
  1. Upload your videos

Drag and drop your video file into the editor, or upload it directly from Dropbox, Google Drive, or Space. Once added, your video will immediately appear, ready for trimming and editing.

Uploading the video file in CapCut's long video to the shorts tool
    STEP 3
  1. Convert long videos into shorts

Choose the caption templates you want to use and set the duration for your short videos. After setting everything up, click the "Convert" button to start the process.

Adjust the settings to convert long videos into shorts

CapCut will quickly create short clips for you, complete with captions and hashtags that match your video topic. If you want to make more changes, click "Edit" to fine-tune your shorts, or export them directly if you're happy with the result.

Finalizing the short video in the CapCut desktop video editor
    STEP 4
  1. Export and share

After finalizing your shorts, you can post them directly to TikTok or YouTube by clicking their icons. If you want to save the videos for other uses, simply click "Export," where you can adjust settings such as resolution, frame rate, codec, and video format before saving them to your device.

Exporting the video from the CapCut desktop video editor

Key features

  • Slice full-length videos into highlights

CapCut helps you convert long videos into shorter clips easily. You can turn big moments into quick highlights that grab attention.

  • Adjustable video length

You can set how long you want your video to be. This helps you match the time limit for TikTok, YouTube Shorts, or Instagram Reels.

  • Explore stylish caption templates

CapCut offers many cool caption designs to add to your video. These templates make your text look more creative and polished.

  • Support 20+ languages

CapCut supports over 20 languages for editing and adding subtitles to videos. It makes it easy to create content for a global audience.

  • Insert relevant topic content

CapCut makes it easy to add text that matches your video's theme, helping you deliver a clear message and strengthen your content's overall impact.

  • Instantly post to TikTok

Once you are done with editing, you can upload your video to TikTok in one click. This saves you time and makes posting super easy.

How to edit TikTok short videos with the CapCut mobile app

CapCut is a user-friendly video editing app designed for quick and creative edits, ideal for TikTok and other social media platforms. It comes with all the basic tools like trimming, cutting, adding music, and applying filters. A key highlight is its AutoCut feature, which enables you to merge multiple clips into a single video with just a few clicks. With CapCut, you can easily transform simple clips into smooth, professional-looking videos with ease.

Use the CapCut mobile app to edit TikTok short videos

Edit TikTok videos with the CapCut mobile app

Follow these steps to easily edit videos using the AutoCut tool on the CapCut mobile app:

    STEP 1
  1. Access the auto cut tool

Launch the CapCut app on your phone and log in. On the main screen, tap the "Auto Cut" option to begin your project.

    STEP 2
  1. Upload video clips

Choose the videos or photos you want to edit from your gallery. After selecting them, tap "Next" at the bottom right to move forward.

    STEP 3
  1. Edit the video

Tap "Allow" to let CapCut automatically generate a video using its templates. You can customize the background music and select different templates. For greater flexibility, manually trim clips, apply filters, and fine-tune the video.

    STEP 4
  1. Export and share

Once you finish editing, tap the "Export" button in the top-right corner. You can either save the video to your phone or post it directly to Instagram or TikTok.

Image showing how to edit TikTok videos with the CapCut mobile app

Key features

  • Merge clips automatically

CapCut automatically combines multiple clips into one efficient video. This saves time and ensures smooth editing with no effort required.

  • Use AI editing templates

CapCut offers a range of AI-powered templates for quick and easy video creation. Choose the best one, and the app will do the rest to suit your style.

  • Add music with ease

Adding background music is simple in CapCut. Browse the music library or upload your own to match your video's vibe.

  • Smooth transitions and effects

CapCut provides a wide variety of transitions and effects. These help you enhance your video with smooth changes between clips and eye-catching visuals.

  • Export and share in one tap

Once your video is ready, exporting is just one tap away. Share directly to platforms like TikTok, Instagram, or save it to your device.

How to make short videos on TikTok go viral

Making your TikTok videos go viral involves a combination of creativity, strategy, and understanding TikTok's algorithm. Here are five key points to increase your chances of going viral:

    1
  1. Follow trends and challenges

Engage with current trends and participate in popular challenges. TikTok users are drawn to content that aligns with the latest trends, and using trending hashtags can boost your video's visibility. Keep an eye on the Discover page to identify what's trending and incorporate those elements into your content.

    2
  1. Create engaging content

Within the initial few seconds of your video, viewers should become interested. To immediately pique viewers' interest, begin with a compelling hook. Ensure your content is entertaining, informative, or visually appealing to keep viewers engaged throughout the video. High-quality visuals and sound are crucial for maintaining viewer interest.

    3
  1. Utilize hashtags and captions

Use relevant and trending hashtags to increase your video's reach. Use a combination of hashtags to reach both large and specific audiences. Create captivating captions that entice users to connect by posing queries or requesting comments.

    4
  1. Post at optimal times

Timing can impact how many people see your video. Analyze your audience's activity patterns and post when your followers are most active. This tip increases the likelihood of your video being seen and shared, boosting its chances of going viral.

    5
  1. Engage with your audience

Engage viewers who leave comments on your videos. Reply to messages and comments to create a community around your material. Interacting with your audience can boost their loyalty and stimulate more interactions, which will raise the visibility and virality potential of your video.

You may raise the possibility that more people will notice and even share your TikTok video by putting these strategies into practice.

Conclusion

Creating engaging TikTok short videos involves a mix of creativity, strategy, and effective editing. By exploring popular video styles and mastering TikTok's features, you can craft content that captivates and engages your audience. Emphasize high-quality visuals, timely posting, and interaction to enhance your video's reach and potential for virality.

For more control over editing, you can use the CapCut desktop app, which provides a full set of advanced tools on a bigger screen. If you're on the go and want to create videos straight from your phone, the CapCut mobile app is a perfect choice for quick and polished edits anytime, anywhere.

FAQs

    1
  1. How can I incorporate humor into TikTok shorts funny?

To add humor to your TikTok short videos, focus on relatable content, use trending sound effects, and include funny text or stickers. For smoother editing, you can use the CapCut desktop video editor, which gives you more room to fine-tune your funny moments. If you prefer editing quickly on your phone, the CapCut mobile app makes it easy to add effects and text right on the spot.

    2
  1. How do I create a free fire short TikTok video that gets noticed?

For a standout free fire TikTok video, capture high-energy moments, use engaging music, and add eye-catching effects. Incorporate trending hashtags and interact with your audience to boost visibility. You can refine your video further with CapCut desktop video editor for a professional touch, or quickly edit using the CapCut mobile app when you're on the move.

    3
  1. What are some famous TikTok shorts from which I can draw inspiration?

Popular TikTok shorts often include viral dance challenges, comedic skits, and creative DIYs. Check out trending hashtags and follow influential creators to find videos that resonate with viewers. You can easily explore and edit similar content using the CapCut desktop video editor for more detailed work or the CapCut mobile app for quick edits anywhere.

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