What Are Algorithms and How Do They Work on Social Media?

Algorithms vary from one medium to another, but all are based on machine learning and a set of factors called ranking signals. Each signal is used to rank the value of a given piece of content for each user individually. The entire pool of available content is, then, scanned, scored, and ranked to determine which user should see it.

The goal of the algorithm is to keep the user on the platform for as long as possible. The user's behavior on a given social media platform will be linked to its algorithm. Content creators are the ones who "feed" social media with information, and then these platforms "communicate" with the algorithms.

Every social media platform has its own flow of algorithms.

Instagram algorithms differ one from another depending on their function. Therefore, if the content is popular, it will appear as suggested, and if it is sponsored, it will appear as paid content. Popularity comes first, followed by time, and lastly, location. Your post on Instagram appears to people who frequently visit your profile and less frequently to those who rarely open your profile.

1. The Instagram algorithm has several functions that are used: Instagram story, Instagram post, Instagram explore, suggested content, and sponsored content. Your stories are shown to people who frequently interact with your profile and appear higher up in the feed than others. The Instagram explore algorithm is specifically designed to show you the types of content that are recommended for you.

2. The TikTok algorithm is different and particularly important to understand as it differs from most social media platforms. It is designed to show the user new content rather than content from people they already follow. Known ranking signals include previous interactions. Videos are selected based on the algorithm of content, sound, effect, and trending topics.

3. The Facebook algorithm is known for ranking signals based on friendship. Your activity will first be filled with content from people you are friends with and pages you follow. This is an even greater reason to encourage your friends and followers to engage with your content. The display algorithm works in a way that users who watch videos are shown more videos, while users who view photos receive more photos. The algorithm can predict if you are going to comment on a post based on the data you have provided. This is an assumption about how important what you post is.

4. The X algorithm allows users to choose between a For you timeline and a Following timeline. The quality of content is based on whether the post is relevant, credible, and safe. Offensive and spam content is not recommended. Popularity is ranked by the number of interactions a post receives.

Algorithms are an essential tool used by every social media platform. The functionality and convenience that this tool offers saves the average person several hours of work.

As in every area, malicious intentions can also be used here in order to harm the user through the algorithm. Hence, it is desirable to know the basics of how algorithms work to prevent or avoid such danger.