Platform Algorithms — Platform Algorithm Methodology
Specialized algorithm knowledge used by the sns-strategist and visual-planner agents when designing content strategy and visuals.
Why Understanding Algorithms Matters
Even great content can be shown to only 10% of followers by the algorithm. The algorithm is not the enemy — it is a tool to be leveraged.
Instagram Algorithm (2025 Baseline)
Feed Ranking Signals
| Signal |
Weight |
Description |
| Relationship |
30% |
Frequency of prior interactions (likes, comments, DMs, tags) |
| Interest |
25% |
History of consuming similar content |
| Timeliness |
20% |
Time elapsed since posting (recent favored) |
| Session Frequency |
15% |
More diverse content shown to frequent users |
| Following Count |
10% |
More follows = lower individual content exposure probability |
Algorithm Differences by Format
| Format |
Key Metric |
Optimization Strategy |
| Feed Post |
Save > Share > Comment > Like |
Information-rich content worth saving |
| Reels |
Completion Rate > Share > Replay |
Hook within 3 sec, 15-30 sec optimal, loop structure |
| Carousel |
Swipe Rate > Save > Share |
Hook on first slide, CTA on last |
| Stories |
Reply > Poll/Quiz Participation > Tap Speed |
Interactive stickers, questions |
Instagram Golden Hours
| Audience |
Optimal Posting Time |
| General |
Tue-Fri 11:00-13:00, 19:00-21:00 |
| B2B |
Tue-Thu 08:00-09:00 |
| Weekend Content |
Sat 10:00-12:00 |
TikTok Algorithm
For You Page Ranking
| Signal |
Weight |
Description |
| Completion Rate |
35% |
Watched to the end (most important) |
| Re-watch |
20% |
Repeated viewing of same video |
| Share |
15% |
DM/external sharing |
| Comments |
15% |
Comment writing and length |
| Profile View |
10% |
Visited profile after watching |
| Follow |
5% |
Followed after watching |
TikTok Optimization Essentials
- First 1 second is everything: Visual/text hook to stop scrolling
- 15-30 seconds optimal: Maximize completion rate (longer videos reduce completion)
- Loop structure: End flowing into beginning encourages re-watching
- Trending sounds: Using popular music/audio boosts exposure
- Text overlay: Subtitles essential for muted viewers
LinkedIn Algorithm
Content Classification and Reach
| Classification |
Reach |
Characteristics |
| Native Text |
Highest |
Text only, no external links |
| Image Post |
High |
Includes 1-3 images |
| Document/PDF |
High |
Slide-format document upload |
| Video |
Medium |
Native upload only (no YouTube links) |
| External Link |
Low |
Including external URLs reduces reach 40-50% |
LinkedIn Golden Hour
The first hour's reactions after posting determine overall reach:
- 10+ comments in the first hour -> Algorithm boost
- Strategy: After posting, request opinions from relevant connections via DM
X (Twitter) Algorithm
For You Feed Signals
| Signal |
Effect |
| Retweet + Quote |
Highest weight — virality signal |
| Reply Threads |
Conversation creation = content value |
| Bookmark |
Signal strengthened since 2023 |
| Dwell Time |
Content read at length is favored |
| Image/Video |
1.5-2x reach vs text-only |
| External Link |
30-50% reach decrease (separate to self-reply) |
Cross-Platform Strategy
Content Calendar Optimization
| Day |
Optimal Platform |
Reason |
| Mon |
LinkedIn |
Week start, work mode |
| Tue-Wed |
Instagram, X |
Peak activity hours |
| Thu |
TikTok |
Weekend content consumption pattern begins |
| Fri |
X, Instagram |
Light content, weekend preview |
| Sat-Sun |
Instagram, TikTok |
Leisure time, entertainment |
Recommended Posting Frequency
| Platform |
Minimum |
Recommended |
Maximum |
| Instagram Feed |
3x/week |
4-5x/week |
1x/day |
| Instagram Stories |
1x/day |
3-5x/day |
10x/day |
| TikTok |
3x/week |
1-2x/day |
3x/day |
| LinkedIn |
2x/week |
3-4x/week |
1x/day |
| X |
1x/day |
3-5x/day |
10x/day |
