The Instagram Algorithm. Just the mention of it is enough to send creators of all sizes into a frenzy. Whether you’re constantly on edge, awaiting the next “big Instagram algorithm update,” or simply confused about how it works or what it even is, most people don’t have a neutral reaction when thinking about it. If you’re ready to finally get your content working for you by understanding once and for all how the Instagram Algorithm works, you’re in the right place. From aspiring content creators to seasoned pros, this guide dives into Instagram Algorithm fundamentals, explains how it really works, before sharing my 6 proven hacks. 

Ready? Let’s go!

What is the Instagram Algorithm?

The Instagram Algorithm isn’t a single entity. It’s multiple systems working all at once, serving content tailored to each user on the platform. Instead of thinking of the “Instagram Algorithm” as one thing, you need to know that there are several algorithms, each serving a very specific purpose. For instance, every page on Instagram has its own algorithm that ranks content depending on the use of the page. There’s a specific algorithm for Stories, Explore Page, Search Results, Feed, and Reels. Each one takes into account various signals, like engagement, watch time, profile interactions, and more. Each one of these decides what individual users see, and when they see it. 

How the Instagram Algorithm Works

At its core, the Instagram Algorithm exists to accomplish one goal: keep people on the app as long as possible. The more you grab attention from the get-go, hook viewers into watching, encouraging them to interact, and invite them to engage (like share, comment, reshare, or reply), the more Instagram rewards your content by showing it to more people. 

6 Proven Ways to Hack the Instagram Algorithm

“Hacking” the Instagram Algorithm is a catchy way to say “here’s how to give the algorithm exactly what it wants.” I want you to keep in mind that these 6 hacks I’m about to share aren’t necessarily a secret sauce to succeeding. Because succeeding on Instagram isn’t about tricks that miraculously make things happen – it’s about knowing exactly how to work with the platform so that you can have a mutually beneficial relationship with the app, one where you help it and it helps you. Let’s start with hack number one:

1) Post Instagram Reels (Seriously, don’t skip this)

If you’re serious about growing on Instagram, you can’t afford to skip Reels. Instagram is now a video-first platform, which means the algorithm is hungry for it. While photos, carousels, and stories are still an important part of nurturing community on Instagram, Reels is undeniably a powerful asset that you need if you want to succeed. 

Beyond the dedicated Reels tab, Instagram’s Explore Page also heavily features Reels. Sure, the barrier to creating a high-performing Reel is higher, requiring more time and knowledge, like storytelling, script writing, videography, and editing… It is well worth the effort if you want to grow on Instagram.

2) Stack Your Reels Hooks

If you have been posting Reels, you’ve probably noticed that the old school Instagram mentality of aesthetics is a little outdated. Meaning, it’s not enough to have a pretty Reel anymore. On top of that, audiences everywhere are getting smarter, which means simple text hooks alone might not even cut it. Today, if you want to be a true competitor on Instagram’s Algorithm, you need to think about layering and stacking your hooks.

To do this, you want to know the different hooks you have at your disposal:

• Visual hooks: Camera movement, cuts, visual surprises that hook us in the first few seconds.
• Verbal hooks: A compelling one-liner (preferably one that employs a psychological trigger) that keeps people interested all the way through
• Text hook: A text-based subtitle that drives curiosity (another instance of using psychological hooks)

When you stack hooks like that, you stop the scroll and boost watch time—a key algorithm signal.

I dive deeper into my viral-worthy Reels strategy in my free workshop. Click right here and you can watch it right now. 

3) Post Stories Regularly & Use the Stickers

Stories with interactive stickers (polls, quizzes, count‑downs, emoji sliders) outperform static ones. That’s because it encourages engagement from your audience. And when someone engages with your content, it signals to Instagram’s Algorithm that this is worth interacting with. On top of that, new sticker feature rollouts are more frequent than other in-app updates. As we all know, early adopters often get rewarded. 

4) Encourage Watch Time

Stopping the scroll is just the start. The heavy lifting comes next. Keeping viewers watching longer, or even rewatching your Reels, is one of the best ways to get Instagram’s Algorithm on your side. It shows interest, which is always a green flag. Instagram measures complete views and re-watches. That means each second counts. 

5) Create with Sharing in Mind

Shares are one of the most important metrics to track the health of your content. Each share introduces your content to new viewers, which signals to the Instagram Algorithm that your content resonates. On top of that, Instagram has clearly emphasized the importance of in-app messaging, adding features like Reels Blend and Broadcasts.

When creating your content, you always want to account for shareability. While not every post will fit that bill, you don’t want to leave shareable content out of your strategy. Especially when you want to grow. 

6) Use Clear Relevant Keywords in Hashtags, Captions & Bio

The nature of hashtags has changed significantly since their beginnings. Back in the early 2010s, it was enough to use a popular or trendy hashtag if you wanted to get in front of users. Today, hashtags have been replaced by keywords. In other words, you want to think about what people are typing into their search bar and how your content could provide a solution for their query. While hashtags are now an important place for keywords, keywords should also make an appearance in your caption and your bio.

For example, if you’re a fitness coach for petite women, you at the very least want to add that in your bio. From there, your content will naturally incorporate keywords in your hashtags and captions to satisfy the needs of your audience as it relates to your niche.

This technique shifts your content toward search-friendly, not just hashtag-friendly, territory, giving you an edge in Explore and Instagram’s Search Results.

Wrapping Up

Before you start implementing these 6 strategies, I want to address a common misconception. A lot of people create news and content around the latest Instagram Algorithm update. In fact, the algorithm doesn’t have a “huge change” in the way that it is often reported. Instagram tweaks refinements—not full rewrites—usually to better align with user behavior. Yes, ranking signals evolve. But the ultimate goal remains: more watch time, engagement, and time spent in-app.