As a mixed Puerto Rican, Jamaican-Chinese woman, one of the most common questions I’m asked is “Where are you from?!” followed by people guessing all sorts of marvelous places around the world — occasionally close to my actual heritage, but usually not. So when I recently discovered the “Questions I Get Asked” TikTok trend, I instantly fell in love with how relatable it is. If you can think of a question or two that you get asked all the time, whether serious, genuine, or downright ridiculous, this TikTok trend can help you settle the score.
Right off the bat, there are a few elements at play that make #QuestionsIGetAsked a solid TikTok trend. We all know that nearly any catchy song can make for a fabulous viral moment, and the extended version of “The Magic Bomb” by Hoàng Read 100% does the trick here. Between the song’s driving beat and the accompanying hand movements — which many TikTokers have adapted to create their own unique versions — I appreciate that this trend has multiple layers, and leaves lots of room for creativity (here’s a fun compilation if you want to see what I’m talking about!).
One of the first versions of #QuestionsIGetAsked to pop up on my FYP was from Sisa Quispe, who gracefully distills myths about her Indigenous heritage. There’s also one from gymnastics queen Laurie Hernandez, who answers legitimate, commonly-asked questions related to the Olympics, like “Why aren’t you competing?” Or this TikTok from JoJo Siwa that brings me so much joy — can we talk about how giddy she looks, though?!
In each version, you’ll notice that everyone pairs their commonly-asked questions with hand movements that are coordinated with the beat of the song, and they answer each question with a sweeping motion of their hand. PSA to my rhythmically-challenged friends: don’t worry, you’ll catch on soon. And if Henry the chinchilla can do it, so can you.
Ready to attempt this one? First, think of a few questions you get asked all the time. Are you constantly fielding questions related to your identity? Are you a diehard Twilight fan who is forever being asked why? (Answer: Taylor Lautner). If you need some inspiration for your TikTok, check out this version from Ramsha, who responds with spot-on sarcasm to tone-deaf questions about her Muslim identity, or this version from a cute, young doctor who constantly gets asked about what it’s like to be a (cute) young doctor. Once you’ve got a question or two in mind, start practicing your hand movements — and if coordination isn’t your strong suit, just make up your own dance. We won’t judge.
Once your video is created, remember to add text, captions, and any context we might need, along with the hashtag #QuestionsIGetAsked. Then, share your creation with the world and join the thousands of TikTokers who are jumping on the trend. After all, who said Q&As had to be boring?