revfactory 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 | 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 |
| 2x/week | 3-4x/week | 1x/day | |
| X | 1x/day | 3-5x/day | 10x/day |