Tech Reference

How to reverse a TikTok video to make it run backwards

TikTok app iphone
It's easy to reverse a TikTok video. XanderSt/Shutterstock
Updated
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TikTok videos can range from basic point-and-shoot posts to music videos and complex comedy skits. 

This massive variety of content and the platform's popularity is largely because of how TikTok's editing tools make it possible to customize your videos without advanced knowledge and editing software. From straight within the TikTok app, you can add filters, music, other videos, and more to your clip.

If you've been interested in upping your posting game, or have been inspired by another TikTok you saw, you might want to try adding a "Reverse" effect to your video. This will make your video run backwards — a simple change that can spawn many cool ideas.

Here's how to access and use the Reverse effect on your TikTok videos.

How to reverse a TikTok

Once you're already logged into your account, this should be quick and easy to accomplish:

1. Open your TikTok app on your Android phone or iPhone.

2. Tap the plus sign in the bottom-middle section of the screen.

Tap the button located in the bottom-middle of the screen.
Tap the plus sign.  Kyle Wilson/Insider

3. Press and hold the red button to start recording your video, and release the button when you're done.

The TikTok app with the record button highlighted.
The TikTok app with the record button highlighted.  Kyle Wilson/Insider

4. Tap Effects at the top right of your screen — it's an icon that looks like a clock.

The TikTok app with the Effects button highlighted.
Open the Effects menu.  Kyle Wilson/Insider

5. In the new list of options that appears at the bottom of your screen, swipe right and tap on Time.

The TikTok Effects menu with the Time option highlighted.
Tap on Time.  Kyle Wilson/Insider

6. Select Reverse — you'll then see a preview of your new, reversed video appear on the screen.

The TikTok Time menu with the Reverse option highlighted.
Tap on Reverse.  Kyle Wilson/Insider

7. If you like the Reverse effect, tap Save in the top-right corner and then select Next to continue posting as you normally would.

The TikTok Time menu with the Save button highlighted.
Tap on Save.  Kyle Wilson/Insider

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Devon Delfino is a Brooklyn-based freelance journalist specializing in personal finance, culture, politics, and identity. Her work has been featured in publications such as The Los Angeles Times, Teen Vogue, Business Insider, and CNBC. Follow her on Twitter at @devondelfino.