To be loved is to be noticed – but when the Instagram algorithm controls how many people actually see you, getting that love (or even a simple like) can feel challenging. The upside? We’re revealing what’s really going on behind the scenes of the Instagram algorithm. We’ll explain the key ranking signals that count, and how to fine-tune your Instagram content to boost your reach. Bonus!!! Grab a free social SEO checklist and use expert tips for Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, X (Twitter), and LinkedIn to help your posts get in front of more people. Download now What is the Instagram algorithm? The Instagram algorithm is a collection of AI-driven ranking systems that determine what each user sees throughout the app. The sequence of posts, Stories, and Reels in your feed is shaped by this system: Instagram surfaces the highest-ranking content first. It does this by evaluating several important signals, including: User activity: Instagram analyzes the posts you like, watch, search for, and interact with to predict what you’ll enjoy. Relationship signals: You’re more likely to be shown content from accounts you frequently message, comment on, or otherwise engage with. Popularity: Posts that quickly earn lots of likes, comments, shares, or saves are more likely to be pushed out to a wider audience. Recency: Newer posts tend to appear higher so your feed stays up to date. Content type: Instagram tracks whether you tend to engage more with Reels, photos, or carousels, and then serves you more of that format…