Viral formats · Week of September 28, 2026
3 viral TikTok and Reels formats this week (Sep 28, 2026)
Get the video formats that are winning on TikTok and Instagram this week.
By Strat Cat · Updated
Key takeaways
- Tutorial videos are scoring an average of 84/100 by showing a quick screen recording demo.
- The Talking Head format works best when a creator tells a personal story before showing the solution.
- Skits grab attention by opening on a relatable problem, like the "I'm so bad at marketing" video.
This week is all about showing how things work. Tutorials are scoring high by solving specific problems with screen recordings. Talking heads are also winning by sharing personal stories that lead to a clear solution.
1. Tutorial
5 videos this week · average Strat score 84/100 · mostly on Instagram
What it is
A creator shows you how to do something, usually with a screen recording. It starts with a problem and ends with a clear result on screen.
Why it works right now
This format provides immediate value. Viewers learn a specific skill or discover a new tool quickly. The fast pacing and clear steps make complex information feel easy to understand.
How to make one
- Hook with a relatable problem or big promise.
- Show the solution using a fast-paced screen recording.
- Use text overlays to highlight each key step.
- End by showing the successful outcome on screen.
Examples this week
POV Ad for a Creator Monetization Platform by Jenna (score 88)
AI Assistant Multitasks with Voice Commands by Diego (score 86)
How to Build a Shopify Store with ChatGPT (Caveman Edition) by Jessi (score 85)
2. Talking Head
3 videos this week · average Strat score 71/100 · mostly on Instagram
What it is
A creator speaks directly to the camera, sharing a personal story or a strong opinion. The video often cuts away to a screen recording or other visuals to prove a point.
Why it works right now
This format builds trust and feels personal. Starting with a controversial take or a relatable story creates an immediate connection. Showing proof with a quick demo makes the creator's advice more credible.
How to make one
- Start with a strong, controversial, or relatable opinion.
- Tell a short story to set up the problem.
- Cut to a screen recording to show the solution.
- Summarize why the solution works at the end.
Examples this week
Why the Laziest People Get the Best Jobs After Graduation by Mae’s Talks (score 85)
How to Make $300 in 3 Hours Giving Advice to Men by yourmusecoach (score 77)
Couple's Testimonial for Body Acne Product by jamiefinds3 (score 51)
3. Skit
2 videos this week · average Strat score 82/100 · mostly on Instagram
What it is
A creator acts out a short, relatable scenario to illustrate a problem. The video then quickly cuts to a solution, often a screen recording of a product.
Why it works right now
Skits are highly shareable because they are entertaining and relatable. They frame a problem in a funny or dramatic way, which makes the solution feel more impactful.
How to make one
- Act out a common frustration your audience has.
- Use on-screen text to state the problem clearly.
- Quickly cut to a screen recording of the solution.
- End by showing the character as confident and successful.
Examples this week
Marketing Hack for Competitor Analysis by Carol (score 85)
AI Tutor Explains Anatomy Like Juicy Gossip by studyfetchkendall (score 79)
Frequently asked questions
What TikTok formats are trending right now?
Tutorial videos, talking heads, and skits are trending on TikTok and Instagram. These formats work because they quickly show a solution to a common problem, often using screen recordings or personal stories.
How do you make a good tutorial video for TikTok?
Start with a hook that presents a relatable problem. Then, use a fast-paced screen recording to show the solution step by step. End by showing the final, successful result.
What is a pattern interrupt hook in a video?
A pattern interrupt is a visual or sound that breaks the viewer's normal scrolling behavior. This could be a sudden movement towards the camera, a strange object, or an exaggerated facial expression.