How to make AI videos for TikTok, step by step
By the ShortsMachine team · Updated
AI can now make a complete TikTok for you — script, visuals, voice and captions — in a few minutes. The difference between AI TikToks that flop and ones that travel is the same as for any TikTok: a hook that stops the scroll, pacing that never drags, and a reason to watch to the end.
Step by step
- 1
Choose one format
Storytime, did-you-know facts, POV scenarios, explainers or product teasers. Stick to one while you learn what works.
- 2
Write a hook-first idea
Put the most interesting part first: "This fish can walk on land" rather than "Facts about fish".
- 3
Generate the video in 9:16
In ShortsMachine choose 9:16, 20–60 seconds, an art style and a voice, then pick a model. Budget models like HeyGen Video 1 work well for daily posting.
- 4
Review it
Watch the whole video. Check facts, and regenerate if the first two seconds are not strong.
- 5
Post natively on TikTok
Upload the MP4 in the TikTok app, write a short caption with a few relevant hashtags, and add a trending sound at low volume if it fits.
- 6
Learn from the numbers
Look at watch time and rewatches. Make more of the hooks and topics that hold attention.
Hooks that work on TikTok
- A bold claim: "Your phone is listening differently than you think."
- A countdown: "Three things nobody tells you about…"
- A story in the middle: "She opened the door and the room was full of letters."
- A question with stakes: "Would you survive one night in this house?"
Best settings for AI TikToks
| Setting | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Format | 9:16 vertical |
| Length | 20–60 seconds; stories up to 2–3 minutes |
| Captions | On (burned in automatically) |
| Voice | One consistent voice for your account |
| Model | HeyGen Video 1 or Wan 2.2 Fast for volume; Kling or Seedance for standout videos |
Mistakes to avoid
- Slow intros — get to the point in the first line.
- Realistic AI videos of real people, which can break TikTok’s rules.
- Posting the same video repeatedly with small changes.
- Not labelling realistic AI content when TikTok asks you to.
Frequently asked questions
Is it allowed to post AI videos on TikTok?
Yes, AI-generated videos are allowed, but TikTok asks creators to label realistic AI-generated content and prohibits misleading or harmful uses. Check TikTok’s current community guidelines.
What is the best AI tool for TikTok videos?
Use a tool that makes the whole video — script, visuals, voice and captions — so you can post consistently. ShortsMachine does all of these and offers 15 video models.
Put this guide into practice
Type an idea and ShortsMachine writes the script, generates every scene, adds a voiceover and captions, and stitches it into one video — up to 5 minutes long.
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