Guessing is slow. Data is fast. Here's how to read TikTok analytics.
Enable Analytics (Free)
Settings → Manage Account → Switch to Pro Account (free, reversible). Wait 24h for data.
Metrics That Matter
- Average watch time: the #1 metric. Higher = more distribution.
- Traffic sources: "For You" % shows algorithmic reach vs followers.
- Audience territories: post when THEY'RE awake, not you.
- Follower activity: exact hours your audience is online.
- Video views by section: profile views = curiosity, FYP = algorithm love.
The 80/20 Review (Weekly)
Every Sunday: sort videos by views, find your top 20%, ask "what do these have in common?" — then make 5 more like them next week. Growth is just systematic replication of winners.