If you want to make your videos more engaging or easier to understand, you may be wondering: how do you add text to a TikTok video? Text overlays are one of TikTok’s most popular editing features, allowing creators to highlight key points, add captions, tell stories, or emphasize jokes without relying solely on audio.
Whether you’re creating tutorials, vlogs, product reviews, or entertaining clips, adding text can improve accessibility and keep viewers engaged. In this guide, we’ll explain how to add, customize, and time text on TikTok videos.
Can You Add Text to a TikTok Video?
Yes.
TikTok includes a built-in text editor that lets you:
- Add multiple text boxes
- Change fonts and colors
- Resize and reposition text
- Control when text appears and disappears
- Combine text with stickers, effects, and music
You can add text before publishing your video, but once a video is posted, the text generally cannot be edited.
How to Add Text to a TikTok Video
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Open TikTok.
- Tap the + button to create a new video.
- Record a new clip or upload one from your device.
- Tap Text (Aa) on the editing screen.
- Type the words or message you want to display.
- Tap Done to add the text to your video.
The text will appear on the preview and can be customized further.
How to Change the Font and Color
After typing your text, TikTok allows you to personalize its appearance.
You can:
- Choose from several font styles
- Select different text colors
- Add a background highlight
- Align the text to the left, center, or right
Experiment with different combinations to match your video’s style.
How to Move and Resize Text
Once the text is added:
- Drag it to reposition it anywhere on the screen.
- Pinch with two fingers to make it larger or smaller.
- Rotate it if desired using gesture controls.
This helps ensure the text doesn’t cover important parts of your video.
How to Set Text Timing
One of TikTok’s most useful features is the ability to control when text appears.
To set timing:
- Tap the text box.
- Select Set duration.
- Use the timeline slider to choose when the text starts and ends.
- Preview the timing.
- Save your changes.
This allows different text boxes to appear at different moments throughout the video.
How to Add Multiple Text Boxes
You can include as many text elements as needed.
Simply:
- Tap Text again.
- Enter another message.
- Position it.
- Set its duration independently.
Many creators use this feature for storytelling or step-by-step tutorials.
Can You Add Text-to-Speech?
Yes.
After creating a text box:
- Tap or press and hold the text.
- Select Text-to-Speech.
- Choose an available voice.
- TikTok will read the text aloud automatically.
This can improve accessibility and add personality to your content.
Can You Edit Text After Posting?
No.
Once a TikTok video is published, you generally cannot:
- Edit text
- Fix spelling mistakes
- Change fonts
- Reposition text
- Adjust timing
If changes are needed, you’ll usually have to create and upload a new version.
Tips for Better TikTok Text
Keep It Short
Brief messages are easier for viewers to read before they disappear.
Use High Contrast
Choose colors that stand out against your video’s background.
Avoid Blocking Faces
Place text where it won’t cover important visual elements.
Time Text Carefully
Give viewers enough time to comfortably read each message.
Proofread Before Posting
Double-check spelling and grammar since text cannot usually be edited later.
Common Problems
Text Doesn’t Appear
Make sure:
- The duration includes the desired section.
- The text isn’t positioned off-screen.
- You haven’t accidentally deleted it.
Can’t Set Duration
Update TikTok to the latest version if timing controls aren’t available.
Text Is Hard to Read
Try using:
- A background highlight
- Larger font size
- Higher-contrast colors
Forgot to Add Text
Once the video is posted, you’ll generally need to re-upload it with the desired text included.
ALSO READ: How to add music to a TikTok video after posting
