How To Reset Instagram Algorithm?

Instagram uses not just one but multiple algorithms to ensure that your feed remains relevant to your areas of interest

Among social media platforms, Instagram is preferred for its ability to deliver content that you like. This is made possible via the use of a collection of algorithms that manage different parts of the app. For example, the algorithms may factor in the reels you watched, your feed, stories and recommended content. While the experience is mostly seamless, sometimes you may find a lot of outdated or unwanted content coming your way. This is when you may want to reset the Instagram algorithm. Let us take a look at how to reset Instagram algorithm.

Why users reset Instagram algorithm?

Instagram keeps changing its algorithms. As of now, the algorithms focus on relevance, engagement (likes, comments, share) and type of content (videos and reels are preferred over static images). Priority is also given to the latest posts and content. At times, the algorithms may feel stuck or not working properly. You may notice that your feed has become spammy, irrelevant or inundated with too many ads.

In such cases, people usually choose to reset the Instagram algorithm. Primary reasons include irrelevant recommendations, drop in engagement and emotional drain due to repetitive content. In certain cases, like a breakup, people may want to reset the Instagram algorithm to give a new start to life. Resetting the Instagram algorithm does not delete the Instagram account. It only wipes out the recommendation history, so that users can feel like they are using a new account.

How to reset Instagram algorithm?

It is quite easy to reset the Instagram algorithm, especially after the ‘Reset Suggested Content’ feature was introduced in 2024. You can update the Instagram app to access this feature. This setting can be accessed by visiting Access Settings > Content Preferences > Reset Suggested Content / Reset Recommendations. A notice will be displayed on the screen stating that you are about to make a fresh start. You can then tap on ‘Reset’ to clear Reels, Explore and Feed suggestions. Once done, you will see a confirmation pop-up.

The effect of resetting the Instagram algorithm is instant. However, it can take up to 7 days for Instagram to remap your feed preferences based on your browsing history. Till that time, you may find content to be unrelated or neutral.

How to build a better Instagram algorithm after reset?

If you are not careful, you can again get into the same loop of being inundated with unrelated, outdated content. That is why you need to be a bit more careful when starting anew after resetting the Instagram algorithm.

• Engage carefully – Make sure you comment, like and save only such content that you want to access more in the future. Unnecessary likes and comments will again lead to an unwanted feed.
• Diversify – Unless you are only interested in a specific domain, make sure to follow around 20 accounts in multiple niches. This will help avoid silos and make your feed more vibrant.
• Use recommendations – Choose content to watch from favorites and share with DMs to amplify relationship signals.
• Track progress – In case of business accounts, one can check insights to identify any shifts in engagement after the algorithm reset.