Instagram Algorithm Myths for Beginners: 2025 Guide to Growth

Team Personate
4 min
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Instagram’s algorithm remains a widely discussed topic among content creators. With frequent updates, misinformation spreads quickly, leading many users to believe in outdated or inaccurate strategies. In 2025, Instagram has clarified how its algorithm functions, particularly regarding Reels and content visibility. This article debunks Instagram algorithm myths for beginners, providing accurate insights to help you optimize your content strategy effectively.

Instagram algorithm myths for beginners: what you need to know

Instagram’s algorithm is often misunderstood, leading to misinformation about how content is ranked and distributed. Many creators follow outdated strategies based on myths that no longer apply in 2025. By understanding how Instagram actually prioritizes Reels, engagement, and discoverability, you can make informed decisions that improve your reach and visibility.

Let us break down the most common Instagram algorithm myths and reveal the truth behind them.

Myth #1: Instagram suppresses reels with watermarks

Reality: Instagram does not penalize watermarked content, but original Reels perform better.

Content repurposed from platforms like TikTok or YouTube Shorts is less likely to be recommended. This is not due to suppression but rather Instagram’s preference for content optimized specifically for its platform.

Tip: Add unique commentary insights or creative edits to repurposed content, and visibly credit the original creator to maintain authenticity and trust.

Myth #2: Shorter reels always perform better

Reality: Retention is more important than length.

While shorter videos (15-30 seconds) are easier to consume, a two-minute Reel with an 80 percent retention rate will outperform a 15-second Reel with a 50 percent retention rate. The key is maintaining audience engagement.

Tip: The first three seconds are crucial. Hook viewers immediately to prevent them from scrolling past your content. Learn more about writing engaging hooks here.

Myth #3: Hashtags are useless for reels

Reality: Hashtags remain a useful tool for discoverability when used strategically.

Instagram recommends using three to five niche-specific hashtags per post. Overloading a post with irrelevant hashtags signals spam behavior, which can negatively impact reach.

Tip: Instead of using generic hashtags like #viral, choose specific ones such as #BudgetTravelTips or #FitnessForBeginners to attract the right audience.

Myth #4: Posting at the right time guarantees virality

Reality: Timing is only relevant in relation to your audience’s behavior.

Instagram’s algorithm does not prioritize posts based on universal "best times." Instead, it surfaces content when individual users are most likely to engage.

Tip: Use Instagram Insights to determine when your followers are most active and post accordingly. However, content quality should always be the priority. Learn more about Instagram Insights here. 

Myth #5: Reposting viral reels will get the same results

Reality: The algorithm favors fresh, original content over repeated posts.

Simply reposting an old viral Reel does not guarantee the same level of reach. However, updating the content—such as adding new insights, changing visuals, or refreshing captions—can increase its chances of performing well.

Tip: Repurpose successful Reels by incorporating new trends, data, or a fresh perspective to maintain audience interest.

Myth #6: Business accounts get less reach than personal accounts

Reality: Account type does not affect reach, but content strategy does.

Instagram does not limit the reach of business accounts. However, business profiles tend to post more promotional content, which often receives lower engagement. The algorithm prioritizes engaging content over purely sales-driven posts.

Tip: Instead of focusing solely on selling, share behind-the-scenes footage, tutorials, and relatable content to maintain engagement.

Myth #7: Editing a reel after posting kills its performance

Reality: Minor edits do not negatively impact reach, but major changes can.

Fixing typos or adding alt text will not affect a post’s visibility. However, changing the audio, modifying key visuals, or significantly altering captions can cause the algorithm to re-evaluate the post, potentially resetting its performance.

Tip: If major edits are required, consider deleting and reposting rather than modifying an already published Reel.

Myth #8: All followers see your reels

Reality: Instagram prioritizes engagement over follows.

A follower who consistently skips your Reels will see fewer of them over time. Instagram’s algorithm prioritizes content based on individual user behavior rather than displaying all posts chronologically.

Tip: Increase engagement by asking questions in captions, using polls and stickers in Stories, and encouraging shares and saves to maintain visibility.

How to work with the Instagram algorithm in 2025

Focus on retention: Keep viewers engaged past the first three seconds to improve reach.
Encourage interaction: Saves, shares, and comments are more valuable than likes.
Stay original: Unique and creative content outperforms reposted material.
Optimize for Instagram: Use vertical format, trending sounds, and native tools to align with platform preferences.
Keep learning: Follow @creators on Instagram for official algorithm updates.

By aligning your strategy with these principles, you can create content that works with the algorithm, not against it.

Take your Reels to the next level with AiReel.io

Creating Instagram Reels that capture attention and drive engagement requires time, effort, and creativity. AiReel.io simplifies this process with AI-powered video editing, automated captions, and smart voiceovers, allowing you to create professional, high-performing content effortlessly. 

Whether you need quick edits, dynamic storytelling, or seamless translations, AiReel.io helps you optimize your content for better reach and engagement. Let your creativity shine without the hassle—AiReel.io takes care of the details so you can focus on growth.

What is the biggest challenge you face when trying to grow on Instagram? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and let’s discuss!

📖 Further Reading:
 • Explore broader social strategies in “Do Hashtags Still Matter in 2025? The Truth You Need to Know”
 • Discover ways to increase engagement in “Where and How to Add Video CTAs for Maximum Impact”

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INSTAGRAM TIPS

Got a Question?

Do business accounts inherently receive less organic reach than personal or creator accounts?
No, Instagram’s algorithm does not deprioritize business accounts. However, business accounts often face different engagement challenges compared to personal or creator accounts. One key factor is content intent—business accounts tend to post more promotional and call-to-action-heavy content, which may not drive the same organic engagement as entertaining or community-driven content. Instagram’s algorithm does not lower reach for business accounts explicitly, but it does reward content that keeps users engaged rather than driving them off-platform (e.g., excessive outbound links, "buy now" CTAs, or overtly promotional messaging).
Does Instagram favor certain content types over others, or is it purely engagement-based?
Instagram’s algorithm prioritizes engagement signals, but content format and intent also play a role. While all content types (Reels, carousels, static posts) can perform well, Instagram has a vested interest in keeping users engaged for longer periods. This is why Reels, which often lead to higher watch times and repeat views, tend to get greater visibility. However, it is not just about format—content that drives deeper interactions (saves, shares, and meaningful comments) will outperform even highly liked posts. Additionally, content that aligns with Instagram’s evolving priorities—such as community-driven discussions, educational content, and interactive storytelling—may receive greater algorithmic preference over generic or engagement-baiting content.
Does engagement baiting (e.g., “Like this post if you agree!”) still work in 2025?
Not effectively. Instagram’s algorithm has become more sophisticated in detecting low-value engagement tactics. Posts that overtly ask for likes or comments without meaningful content may receive lower reach over time. Strategy Tip: Encourage genuine interactions by asking insightful questions, prompting discussions, or providing content that naturally encourages sharing and saving.
What are the biggest mistakes creators make when trying to "beat" the Instagram algorithm?
Many creators fall into the trap of gaming the algorithm rather than focusing on sustainable engagement strategies, often leading to short-lived success or diminishing reach over time. One of the most common mistakes is chasing trends without adapting them to a specific niche—while viral content can drive visibility, it only leads to lasting growth when it resonates with the right audience. Another frequent misstep is overloading posts with irrelevant hashtags, as Instagram now prioritizes contextual relevance over sheer quantity, meaning that excessive or mismatched tags can actually work against a post’s visibility. Additionally, many content creators ignore retention metrics, mistakenly assuming that high views equate to success, when in reality, watch time and engagement depth (such as saves and shares) are far more influential in determining reach. Finally, some turn to engagement pods—groups that artificially boost likes and comments—but these tactics rarely contribute to genuine audience growth and can signal inauthentic engagement patterns to Instagram’s algorithm.

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Team Personate specializes in making video creation simple, exciting, and accessible for everyone. With expertise in AI tools and a passion for creativity, we guide creators through every step of the process—from scriptwriting and brainstorming ideas to editing and video SEO. Whether you’re a business professional, a side-hustler, or someone working on fun, personal projects, our mission is to help your content stand out and your ideas shine.

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