TIPS

on how to write

your Instagram text

 

But first: take a look at these examples
(in Dutch and English)

Why is your text worth spending some time on?

  • The IG photo in your feed catches the eye, but your text adds to the quality of your post and encourages more engagement.

  • Your photo draws attention, but your text keeps your followers engaged longer, provides more context and possibly links to more content (link in bio).

  • A lot of news accounts post images with text on them,
    or even text as a full post.

8 tips for your Instagram text

1. Be descriptive: If you're posting a photo or video, use your caption to provide context or tell a story. Describe what's happening in the image or why it's significant.

2. Use relevant hashtags (3 to 5): Hashtags can help your post get discovered by people who are interested in your content. Use relevant hashtags that are popular within your niche.

3. Don't forget to tag the people or accounts you've mentioned, both in your caption and in your picture. Write out the full name of the person as well, as they sometimes use an alias.

4. Keep your paragraphs short and sweet.
> 125 characters incl. spaces until '...more'
> 2.200 characters incl. spaces for a full caption

 

 

 

 

5. Use emojis: Emojis can help convey emotion and add personality to your caption. Use them sparingly, though, and make sure they fit with the tone of your post.

 

6. Inject some personality: Whether you're witty, sarcastic, or heartfelt, let your personality shine through, but think about journalistic objectivity when needed.

7. Ask a question: Engage your audience by asking a question in your caption. This encourages interaction and can lead to more comments and engagement

 

8. Include a call-to-action: Encourage your audience to take action by including a call-to-action in your caption. This can be as simple as asking them to like or comment on your post, or directing them to a link in your bio. Tease to your content ONLY.

Some additional writing tips!

  Writing tips part 1: concise & teasing

  • Write in short sentences, simple words and, if possible, with humour.

  • Don't put the subject at the front of every sentence.

  • Avoid word repetition, e.g. 'also'.

  • Avoid passive voice.

  Writing tips part 2:  social media copy

  • Use a memorable quote.
    E.g. NOT: He talks more about his experience as a referee
    WELL: 'As a referee, I get many dregs thrown at me.'
    Make sure that quote fits your photo!

  • Avoid 'yesterday', 'today', and 'tomorrow'. Instead, work with specific dates.

  • Avoid spelling and typing mistakes; they are deadly on social media (think of the comments)!

   Writing tips part 3:

  • Integrate a listing within your sentence with three parts.

  • Start your second sentence with 'But' or 'And' (sounds very narrative).

  • Make an elliptical sentence (e.g. without a conjugated verb).

  • Use an imperative (incite to action -> call to action).

  • Formulate your message as a question.