On the social network, many users are now tuning in to livestream sessions specifically aimed at helping them study – a trend that is gaining momentum as exam season approaches.
Accounts encouraging users to revise are proliferating on TikTok thanks to the “Study With Me” trend. As such, many creators now film themselves “live”, in the midst of their study sessions, either writing in their notebooks or typing on their keyboards.
And while some creators feature in front of the camera, others prefer more anonymity, showing only their hands.
Between the noises of the keyboard or the pen on paper – or the silence or birdsong of the surroundings – these videos have found their audience on the social network.
One popular account, @oamht, shares various such study videos with over 172,800 followers. “Why is this so relaxing?” commented a user called Sophie. “Whenever I see her, it makes me want to be that responsible and smart,” added Nicole, another follower.
To date, the hashtag #studystream totals 288.6 million views on TikTok, while #studywithme counts 3.5 billion views. Other keywords, such as #studytime or #studymotivation – also widely used – have 570.9 million and 462.8 million views, respectively.
Resisting the temptation of the smartphone
It is a trend that was already all the rage on YouTube in 2019.
In addition to posting videos on their TikTok accounts, content creators regularly hold live study sessions. The idea is that followers tune into the event so they won’t be tempted to reach for their smartphone and lose focus – a challenge that is far from easy.
While the idea is commendable, some users aren’t always all that serious about revision, preferring instead to chat with followers.
The account @studying.with.a.view offers live revision sessions with a breathtaking view of the Swiss city of St Gallen to its 100,000 followers. Some doubt its authenticity, but one user commented: “The background is real, I joined the live and saw the clouds, smoke, cars, and even people moving!”
The creator posts the same short text announcing the study times of the day: “Stop scrolling. This is your sign to study, so let’s study together, next to my beautiful view of St Gallen, Switzerland. 9am-10am & 11am-12am – 50 minutes of studying – 10 minutes break.”
Live study sessions are multiplying on TikTok. In the search bar, recently improved by the platform, users can search for live events with keywords and easily find all the study sessions of the moment.