The Secret to Viral Short Form Videos: Hooks That Stop the Scroll

If you’ve ever found yourself endlessly scrolling on TikTok or Instagram Reels, you’ll know the power of a good hook. It’s those first three seconds that decide whether someone keeps watching or swipes away. For brands trying to dominate social media in 2025, mastering the hook is non-negotiable.

At Market Machine Co, we’ve helped businesses across industries create content that grabs attention and racks up millions of views. Here’s what we’ve learned about creating scroll stopping hooks that actually work.

1. Start With a Bold Statement or Question

People want instant intrigue. Start your video with a surprising fact, a bold opinion, or a relatable question that demands an answer.

• “You’re making this HUGE mistake with your [product/service]...”

• “Ever wondered why no one’s engaging with your posts?”

• “Here’s the trick that helped us get 1M+ views in 7 days.”

This immediately positions your content as valuable and worth sticking around for.

2. Use Fast Paced Visuals and Captions

In the age of short attention spans, visuals are everything. Jump cuts, zoom-ins, bold on screen text, and emojis keep the viewer engaged. Pair this with a hook caption that reinforces your message.

Example:

• Text on screen: “STOP scrolling – you need to see this.”

• Action: A person pointing directly at the camera, then cutting to the problem.

  
  

3. Play Into Trends (But Add Your Twist)

Viral trends give you momentum, but adding a unique spin makes it your own. Adapt popular audio, memes, or formats while staying true to your brand’s voice.

• POV style video: “POV: You finally crack the code to going viral.”

• Trending sound with on brand text overlays that showcase your product/service.

  
  

4. Build Curiosity to Keep Them Watching

Think of the hook like a movie trailer. Tease the payoff without giving it all away.

• “We tested this secret strategy on our client’s account… the results blew us away.”

• Pair this with a visual countdown or blurred image to drive curiosity.

  
  

5. Make It Relatable and Emotional

People connect with content that reflects their lives. Humour, frustration, or even nostalgia can pull viewers in.

• “When your competitor’s video goes viral but yours flops...”

• Show a funny reaction or meme style content that instantly clicks with your audience.

  
  

Why Hooks Matter More Than Ever

In 2025, attention is the ultimate currency. With algorithms favouring watch time and engagement, your hook determines whether your content thrives or dies. Businesses that understand this are already miles ahead.

At Market Machine Co, crafting content with viral potential isn’t luck, it’s strategy. Ready to level up your brand’s social media game? Let’s talk about how we can help you create scroll stopping content.