How do you add text that stays on screen in a TikTok?

Short answer: Add text that stays on screen by tapping the Text tool on TikTok's editing screen, typing your words, then tapping the text and choosing 'Set duration' to stretch it across the whole clip. Drag the duration bar to cover the full timeline so the text stays visible the entire video instead of flashing briefly.

The step-by-step

After recording or uploading, tap the Text button (usually 'Aa') on the editing screen.
Type your text, then pick a font, color, alignment, and background style so it's easy to read.
Tap the finished text once, then tap 'Set duration' from the menu that appears.
Drag the two ends of the duration bar to cover the entire timeline, from the first frame to the last.
Reposition the text so it doesn't cover your face, the caption box, or the right-side buttons, then continue to post.

By default TikTok only shows text for a few seconds around where you added it, which is why so many people ask how to make it stay. 'Set duration' is the whole answer — extend the bar to the full clip length. Exact menu wording can differ slightly by app version and region, so if you don't see 'Set duration,' look for a timing or duration option in the same text menu.

When persistent text is worth it

A single line of text that stays up is one of the most effective tools in short-form. Use it for a headline that reinforces your hook, a running question the video answers, context for someone who scrolled in mid-video, or a soft call to action. Because many people watch muted, on-screen text often carries your message more than your voice does.

Keep it short — one readable line, not a paragraph.
Place it high enough to clear the caption and the buttons on the right.
Use enough contrast (a text background or outline) to stay legible on any footage.
Don't stack so much text that it competes with your face or the action.

A persistent headline is a second hook. If someone lands on your video three seconds in, that on-screen line is what tells them why to stay. Treat it as prime real estate, not decoration.

Know your score before you post

ReelTok's AI analyzes your video on your iPhone — a 0–100 virality score, predicted reach, hooks, and fixes before you share. Free 3-day trial.

How do you add text that stays on screen in a TikTok?

The step-by-step

When persistent text is worth it

Related questions