Instagram Reels Tips: 15 Ways to Get More Views in 2025

Why Instagram Reels Matter in 2025

Instagram Reels dominate the platform's algorithm, receiving significantly more reach than static posts. With over 200 billion Reels played daily, mastering this format is essential for growth. VideoSavy helps you download and study viral Reels to understand what drives engagement.

15 Proven Instagram Reels Tips

1. Start with a Strong Hook (0-3 Seconds)

Capture attention immediately with:

• Text overlays with bold statements
• Surprising visuals or actions
• Intriguing questions
• Pattern interrupts

Example hooks: "This changed everything...", "You're doing this wrong...", "Watch until the end..."

2. Use Trending Audio

Instagram prioritizes Reels with popular audio:

• Check the Reels tab for trending sounds
• Use audio early in its trend cycle
• Save trending sounds for later use
• Add your unique twist to popular sounds

Pro tip: Use VideoSavy to download Reels using trending audio and analyze creative approaches.

3. Optimize Video Length

Best performing lengths in 2025:

• 7-15 seconds: Highest completion rates
• 30 seconds: Balanced engagement
• 60-90 seconds: Educational content only

Key metric: Aim for 90%+ completion rate

4. Post at Peak Times

Optimal posting schedule:

• Monday-Friday: 10 AM - 3 PM
• Best days: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
• Peak time: Wednesday 11 AM

Check Instagram Insights for your audience's active hours.

5. Use Strategic Hashtags

Hashtag formula for maximum reach:

• 3-5 niche-specific hashtags
• 2-3 medium-sized hashtags (10k-100k posts)
• 1-2 broad hashtags (1M+ posts)

Avoid: #fyp, #viral, #explore (overused and ineffective)

6. Write Engaging Captions

Caption best practices:

• Start with a hook or question
• Add value or tell a story
• Include a call-to-action
• Use line breaks for readability
• Add relevant emoji (max 3-5)

7. Create Vertical, High-Quality Videos

Technical specifications:

• Aspect ratio: 9:16 (1080x1920 pixels)
• Frame rate: 30 FPS minimum
• Resolution: 1080p
• Lighting: Bright, well-lit scenes
• Audio: Clear, no background noise

8. Add Text Overlays

83% of videos are watched without sound:

• Add captions to spoken content
• Use large, readable fonts
• Highlight key points
• Keep text on screen long enough to read
• Use contrasting colors

9. Leverage Trending Effects

Instagram promotes Reels using new effects:

• Browse trending effects weekly
• Use effects creatively, not just as filters
• Combine effects for unique looks
• Save favorite effects for easy access

10. Post Consistently

Recommended frequency:

• Minimum: 3-4 Reels per week
• Optimal: 1 Reel daily
• Growth phase: 2-3 Reels daily

Consistency beats perfection—post regularly even if videos aren't perfect.

11. Engage Within First Hour

The algorithm monitors initial engagement:

• Respond to all comments quickly
• Like and reply to comments
• Engage with similar content
• Share to your Story
• Send to close friends

12. Use the "Remix" Feature

Remix (Instagram's version of TikTok Duet):

• Remix trending Reels
• Add your commentary or reaction
• Collaborate with other creators
• Ride viral trends

13. Create Series and Patterns

Build anticipation with recurring content:

• "Myth vs Reality" series
• "Day in the Life" episodes
• "Before and After" transformations
• Weekly tips or hacks

Series encourage followers to return for more.

14. Analyze and Adapt

Use Instagram Insights to track:

• Reach and plays
• Likes, comments, shares, saves
• Average watch time
• Accounts reached
• Follower growth from Reels

Double down on what works, eliminate what doesn't.

15. Study Competitors with VideoSavy

Download and analyze successful Reels:

1. Identify top performers in your niche
2. Use VideoSavy to download their Reels
3. Analyze hooks, pacing, and structure
4. Note caption formulas and hashtags
5. Adapt successful elements to your style
6. Add your unique perspective

Content Types That Perform Well

Educational Content

• How-to tutorials
• Quick tips and hacks
• Myth-busting
• Educational series

Entertainment

• Relatable humor
• Sketches and parodies
• Satisfying visuals
• Unexpected twists

Inspirational

• Motivational quotes
• Success stories
• Transformation journeys
• Behind-the-scenes

Trending Challenges

• Dance challenges
• Transition challenges
• Hashtag challenges
• Audio challenges

Common Reels Mistakes to Avoid

• Using copyrighted music (use Instagram's library)
• Recycling TikTok content with watermarks
• Ignoring trends completely
• Poor video quality
• Weak hooks
• Too much text on screen
• Being too promotional
• Inconsistent posting

The Instagram Reels Algorithm

Instagram prioritizes Reels based on:

• Completion rate (most important)
• Engagement (likes, comments, shares, saves)
• Audio usage (trending sounds boost reach)
• Originality (native content over reposts)
• Relationships (interactions with creator)

Tools and Resources

Essential tools for creating Reels:

• Editing: CapCut, InShot, Adobe Rush
• Design: Canva for thumbnails and text
• Analytics: Instagram Insights, Later, Metricool
• Research: VideoSavy for competitor analysis
• Scheduling: Later, Planoly, Buffer

Building a Reels Strategy

30-day action plan:

1. Week 1: Study top performers, download examples with VideoSavy
2. Week 2: Test different content types and times
3. Week 3: Analyze results, double down on winners
4. Week 4: Establish consistent posting schedule

Conclusion

Instagram Reels offer unprecedented organic reach in 2025. By implementing these 15 tips—from strong hooks to strategic audio use—you can significantly increase your Reels views and grow your following. Use VideoSavy to study successful content, adapt proven strategies, and develop your unique voice. Remember: consistency and authenticity beat perfection. Start creating today!