Introduction
One of social media platforms greatest elements is a term called the algorithm. It works as a mysterious invisible force that determines what you do and don’t see online. So every TikTok video you like, repost and scroll through, every Instagram photo you double tap, and every YouTube video you watch are all decided by the algorithm. It also works as a powerful ally in growing a content creator’s online audience. But what exactly is it, and how does it work? And does it really control our thoughts and habits more than we realise? Here’s everything you need to know about the algorithm.
What is the algorithm?
An algorithm is a series of rules and instructions given to a computer in order to solve specific problems, perform tasks and make decisions. In social media, they are used to determine the type of content that shows up on your feed, the order and the frequency.
In the past, social media platforms would showcase content chronologically. However, this new modern algorithm prioritises content they think you’ll engage with, based on your past behaviour. This includes what you liked, commented on, shared or how long you read, watched and engaged with a post for. Therefore, the algorithm in some ways influences our choices and what we see on social media.
How does it work?
Every major social media platform, whether it be Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, or X, uses algorithms. They may work in slightly different ways, but at their core, they track the same things and have similar goals:
- Your past behaviour: What you liked, saved, favourited, commented on or clicked and the accounts you follow. These are clear indicators of the content you, as a user, find interesting and relevant.
- The behaviour of similar users: What people similar to you are likely to interact with
- Type of Post: Whether it’s a video, carousel or link and how popular it is.
- How much time you spend engaging: The time spent pausing, reading or watching content.
- Location: The algorithm considers the location and demographics of users. Therefore, the algorithm promotes content taken in similar or nearby locations.
- Popularity: Content that is going viral is more likely to gain the attention of the algorithm.
Therefore, the algorithm analyses our behaviour, engagement, interactions and interest across social media platforms. By doing so it understands our content preferences and delivers customised content catered to us. The following factors contribute to the process of predicting what you’re most likely to like and engage with.
