To add text to a TikTok video, open the editor after recording or uploading, tap Text (Aa), type your words, and drag them into place. Then tap the text and choose Set duration to control when it shows. If you want the same text on Reels and Shorts too, burn it in first with the MobileStudio Add Text to Video tool and upload the finished MP4.
The short answer
| Step | In TikTok |
|---|---|
| Add text | Editing screen > Text (Aa) > type |
| Style | Pick a font, color, and background style |
| Move | Hold and drag the text |
| Time it | Tap the text > Set duration > drag the ends |
| Keep it visible | Stay clear of the right side and bottom |
How do I add text in the TikTok app?
- Tap + and record or upload a video.
- On the editing screen, tap Text (Aa).
- Type your text, then choose a font, color, and alignment. Tap the highlight icon for a background behind the letters.
- Tap Done, then hold and drag the text where you want it.
TikTok's editing help describes these tools and notes you can add several texts and stickers to one video.
How do I make text appear and disappear on TikTok?
Tap the text on the editing screen and choose Set duration. Drag the arrows at either end of the bar so the text covers just the seconds you want, then tap the checkmark. Add more texts with different durations to make words appear one after another.
Where should text go on a TikTok?
TikTok places the caption, username, and sound name at the bottom, and the like, comment, and share buttons on the right. Text in those areas gets covered.
| Area | Use |
|---|---|
| Upper third | Titles and hooks |
| Middle | Key words, reactions |
| Bottom fifth | Avoid; the caption sits there |
| Right edge | Avoid; the buttons sit there |
How do I add text to a TikTok before uploading?
- Open Add Text to Video in your phone's browser.
- Pick the video and type the text.
- Choose Top or Center, raise the Text size, and keep Background on.
- Set the start and end times, then tap Add text & export.
- Upload the MP4 to TikTok.
Burned-in text stays exactly where you put it on every platform, which helps when you cross-post the same clip.
What text works best on TikTok?
A hook in the first second: a question, a bold claim, or "How to..." that matches what viewers searched for. Keep each text to a few words, and show it long enough to read. Text also helps people watching without sound, and on-screen words can match what people search for in TikTok.
Can I add text to a TikTok on a computer?
Yes. Burn the text in with the browser tool on your computer, or use an editor like Clipchamp, whose editing guide covers its Text tab, then upload the finished MP4 from TikTok's website or send it to your phone.
How big should TikTok text be?
Large enough to read at a glance on a small phone. In the browser tool, 8 to 12% works for most hooks. See best font size for video text. For framing the video itself, see how to crop a video for TikTok. Instagram's Reels help page lists similar vertical specs if you cross-post.
Where MobileStudio fits
Add Text to Video is one of our free tools. MobileStudio itself turns screen recordings of your app into polished, vertical demos ready for TikTok. Get MobileStudio.
Quick FAQ
How do I add text to a TikTok?
Tap Text (Aa) on the editing screen, type, and drag it into place.
How do I make text disappear on TikTok?
Tap the text, choose Set duration, and shorten the bar.
Can I add text to a TikTok after posting?
No. Edit and re-post, or add text before posting.
Why is my TikTok text covered?
It's under the caption or buttons. Move it up and toward the center.
Can I use the same text on Reels?
Yes, if you burn it in with Add Text to Video before uploading.
