How to Search Reels on Instagram Step by Step
Learn step-by-step methods to search Instagram Reels using keywords, hashtags, filters, and audio tools to discover trends and relevant content.
How to Search Reels on Instagram Step by Step
Instagram Reels have exploded in popularity, becoming one of the platform’s most engaging features. Whether you are a casual viewer, a content creator, or a marketer, knowing how to search Reels on Instagram effectively can help you discover trends, find inspiration, and connect with your audience. In this detailed guide, you’ll learn practical step‑by‑step methods — from app updates to advanced filtering — so you can make the most of Instagram’s powerful search tools for Reels.
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Understanding Instagram Reels: Basics and Purpose
Instagram Reels are short‑form videos, typically between 15 and 90 seconds, that allow creators to share engaging, creative, and often entertaining content. Their purpose is twofold:
- Engagement — Reels often receive more visibility than regular posts.
- Discovery — Users can find new creators, products, or trends quickly.
Reels are algorithmically surfaced not only to your followers but also to potential new audiences, making them an excellent growth tool for spotting trends or expanding reach.
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Update Instagram App to the Latest Version
Before diving into searches, ensure the Instagram app is up to date. Updates often bring enhanced search capabilities and fix bugs.
To update:
- Open the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
- Search for “Instagram”.
- Tap Update if available.
Keeping your app updated ensures you have access to the newest Explore page layout and any Reels‑specific search filters.
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Using the Search Bar on the Explore Page
Instagram’s Explore page is your primary gateway to discovering new Reels.
Steps:
- Tap the magnifying glass icon at the bottom.
- You’ll see a search bar at the top.
- Type in what you’re looking for—keywords, hashtags, audio names, or even emojis.
The Explore page is algorithmically customized, so results will reflect your interests and past activity.
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Applying Keyword and Hashtag Searches
Searching by keywords or hashtags can quickly narrow down Reels content.
- Keyword Search: Enter descriptive terms like “easy vegan recipes” or “football skills”.
- Hashtag Search: Type a hashtag like `#travelreels` for relevant clips.
A combined approach—keyword plus hashtag—often yields the most precise results.
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Filtering Search Results for Reels Only
When you run a search, Instagram displays a mix of content types: posts, videos, accounts, and Reels.
To filter for Reels:
- After searching, tap the Reels tab under the search bar.
- Only Reels content matching your keywords or hashtags will appear.
This saves you from sifting through unrelated photos or other media.
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Navigating a Creator’s Profile for Their Reels
If you like a specific creator’s style, you can quickly find all their Reels.
Steps:
- Visit their Instagram profile.
- Locate the Reels tab (small play icon).
- Tap it to see all public Reels they’ve posted.
This is helpful for binge‑watching content or researching competitors.
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Using Audio Search to Find Reels by Song or Sound Clip
Another underrated search method is the audio search, especially for trending tracks.
How to use audio search:
- From a Reel you enjoy, tap the audio waveform or name at the bottom.
- Instagram will show you all Reels using that same audio.
- Follow or save the audio to use later.
This helps you tap into trends driven by specific sounds.
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Exploring Trending Audio and Hashtags
Instagram curates trending sounds and hashtags to help you discover viral clips.
Where to find them:
- On the Reels creation page, look for Trending Audio suggestions.
- Explore searches often highlight popular hashtags in your region.
Regular trend checks can spark timely content ideas or introduce you to new creators.
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Save or Bookmark Reels for Quick Access Later
When you find a Reel you love, save it for later reference.
To save a Reel:
- Tap the three dots on the Reel.
- Select Save.
Access saved Reels by going to your profile > menu > Saved. This is useful for organizing inspiration or research material.
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Using Instagram’s "Suggested Reels" Algorithm
Instagram’s algorithm tracks your engagement to serve up recommended Reels. The more you interact with content you enjoy, the better your personalized feed becomes.
Tips to optimize suggestions:
- Like and comment on Reels you appreciate.
- Follow creators and engage with trending sounds relevant to you.
- Avoid lingering on content you dislike.
Over time, your Explore feed becomes a curated stream aligned with your preferences.
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Combine Search Strategies for Niche Discovery
A savvy approach involves combining multiple search techniques:
- Hashtag + audio: e.g., `#baking` + trending song.
- Keyword + creator profile: Search topic → click creator → browse their Reels.
- Trending hashtags + saved Reels: Track ongoing trends and bookmark inspirations.
This maximizes both variety and relevance in your Reels discovery.
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Tips for Improving Search Accuracy
Refine your Reels search with these tips:
- Be specific with keywords (e.g., “DIY wooden table” instead of “DIY furniture”).
- Try common misspellings for niche jargon or slang.
- Use both singular and plural forms.
Pro tip: Clear, descriptive queries boost matches with captions, hashtags, and audio metadata.
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Troubleshooting When Reels Search Isn’t Working
Sometimes glitches or empty results can happen. Common fixes include:
| Issue | Possible Fix |
|---|---|
| Reels tab missing in search results | Update Instagram app or log out and back in |
| Search results not loading | Check internet connection or restart device |
| Persistent app crash | Clear app cache (Settings > Apps on Android) or reinstall the app |
| Audio search not showing matches | Try alternative spellings or use an audio link from a Reel |
If none of these work, contact Instagram support via Settings > Help.
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Privacy Considerations When Searching Reels
While your searches are private to you, Instagram uses them to tailor content and ads.
Tips for privacy-conscious users:
- Clear search history periodically (Settings > Security > Clear Search History).
- Use a secondary account for sensitive topics.
- Limit engagement with identifiable videos if you prefer minimal data usage.
Likes and comments are publicly visible to creators and other users.
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Final Thoughts and Next Steps
Mastering how to search Reels on Instagram is about more than typing a keyword—it’s understanding and using the variety of tools Instagram offers. By combining keyword searches, hashtag hunting, audio exploration, and creator deep‑dives, you can uncover a personalized feed of Reels that are relevant and inspiring.
Whether your aim is casual enjoyment, finding trending ideas, or growing a brand, the right search strategies will keep you ahead of the curve. Keep your app updated, experiment with filters, and refine your search terms.
Now it’s your turn: open Instagram, try one of these methods today, and start exploring Reels like a pro.
