Top 5 Hooks That Get People to Stop Scrolling
Ever wonder how some videos get millions of views in a week, and yours just fade into silence? Here’s the truth: it’s not luck. It’s not better lighting. It’s not some secret algorithm cheat code.
It’s the hook. The first words, first frame, first five seconds—that’s the battlefield. And the best creators? They know exactly how to win it.
In this blog, we’re breaking down the Top 5 Hooks that stop the scroll, lock eyes, and make people watch till the end. These aren’t guesses. These are proven formulas used by big accounts, big brands, and big earners.
1. “Most People Are Doing This Wrong…”
Nobody wants to be the one doing something wrong. That little bit of fear? That’s what makes this hook powerful.
When a post starts with “Most people mess this up” or “You’re doing this wrong,” the brain snaps to attention. It triggers curiosity. Doubt. Even a little panic. And that combo makes people watch just to make sure they aren’t the fool.
Use it to introduce mistakes in your industry, common myths, or daily habits people overlook.
Pro Tip: Add a fast cut or bold caption with the words “STOP scrolling” to triple the impact.
2. “Here’s What No One Tells You About…”
We live in a world full of noise, but the real winners? They offer secrets. Stuff that feels exclusive. Hidden. Insider.
That’s why “What no one tells you about…” is one of the strongest hooks you can use. It makes the viewer feel like they’re about to get the real deal, not some watered-down fluff.
Pair this with niche-specific wisdom or personal experience. That’s where the gold is.
Examples:
“What no one tells you about going viral on Reels”
“What no one tells you about your first 30 days in business”
Want to stop being ignored and start standing out? Our team at Multipost Digital builds scroll-stopping Reels for brands just like yours. Reach out today.
3. “Watch What Happens At [Timestamp]”
This hook is a time bomb. You drop it and people have to stick around to see the payoff.
It’s perfect for visual reveals, emotional twists, or clever storytelling. Saying “Watch what happens at 0:09” makes the viewer commit to watching at least that long… and most end up watching even longer.
Here’s why it works:
It teases a reward.
It gives people a reason to stay.
It increases watch time—which tells the algorithm your video is fire.
Combine this with slow build-up footage and light suspense to keep them leaning in.
4. “If You’re Struggling With [Problem], Do This”
This hook punches straight into pain. And pain grabs attention like nothing else.
People are always scrolling for answers. If your video starts with a solution to a real problem they’re having, they’ll stop immediately. It’s like hearing your name in a loud room. Their brain just locks in.
This works best when:
The problem is common
The solution is fast or surprising
You get to the point within the first 3 seconds
Example:
“If you’re struggling to grow on Instagram, try this”
“If you feel burnt out every day, watch this before work”
No intro. No fluff. Straight to pain. Then straight to value.
Multipost Digital helps brands turn pain points into viral content. Want us to help you build a scroll-stopping strategy? Book a free content audit now.
5. “I Tried [Something Ridiculous] Just To See If It Works”
Now we’re playing with curiosity. Humans are wired to love experiments and risks—especially ones that feel a little crazy.
When someone says, “I tried waking up at 4 AM for 30 days,” or “I posted 3 times a day for a week just to see what would happen,” you have to see what went down. Why? Because we want the result without having to try it ourselves.
This is why challenge-style hooks and “social experiments” absolutely crush. They’re relatable, risky, and full of curiosity-triggering questions:
Did it work?
Was it worth it?
Should I try it too?
This type of hook is perfect for showing progress, testing new tools, or documenting bold moves.
The Hook Makes or Breaks Your Reel
The best video in the world won’t go viral if no one watches past the first second. And the hook? That’s the gateway.
Now you know what actually works:
Trigger curiosity
Tap into fear
Solve problems
Promise a payoff
Or go all in on something bold
Want help writing these kinds of hooks every single week? Multipost Digital creates strategies, scripts, and systems that turn your brand into a scroll-stopping machine.
Let’s build your content empire. Get in touch with Multipost Digital now.
