The hashtag debate rages on: Are they dead? Do they matter? Should you use #fyp? The truth is more nuanced than the hot takes suggest. Hashtags aren't dead—they've evolved.
How TikTok Uses Hashtags in 2026
Content Categorization: Hashtags help the algorithm categorize your content and match it with interested users.
Discovery Pathway: Users can browse all content using a hashtag—an additional discovery channel.
Search Relevance: Hashtags appear in TikTok's search results.
What Doesn't Work
- Spamming #fyp, #viral, #foryou—these tell TikTok nothing
- Using 20+ hashtags—looks desperate, confuses the algorithm
- Copy-pasting identical tags for every video
The 3-Bucket Hashtag Strategy
Bucket 1 - Broad Niche (1-2 tags): High-volume category hashtags like #fitness, #cooking
Bucket 2 - Specific Topic (2-3 tags): More targeted like #homeworkout, #ketorecipes
Bucket 3 - Contextual/Long-tail (1-2 tags): Highly specific like #apartmentgym, #30minutemeals
Stick to 4-6 total hashtags for optimal results.
Key Takeaways
- Hashtags serve categorization and search functions
- Skip generic tags like #fyp
- Use the 3-Bucket strategy for balanced reach
- 4-6 total hashtags is optimal
ReelRise Editorial Team
Expert insights on short-form video growth strategies, backed by AI analysis of millions of viral videos.