How to Get 10k Views on Reels (Proven Strategy, Not Luck)
Many people say that 10k views on Instagram Reels can only come through luck or following trends. However, this is completely unrealistic and a myth. Reels don’t get views just like that. Instagram first tests your Reel by showing it to a limited audience. Only if engagement is good does Reel views increase rapidly. If your Reel isn’t gaining views, it’s not just the platform’s fault; the strategy you’re using is now outdated.
Quality is very important in Reels, but you can’t rely solely on it. The algorithm has changed significantly, so to get 10k views, you should also be aware of metrics like a strong hook, high retention, and early engagement. So, if you’re wondering how to find these strategies, don’t worry; we’ve provided a step-by-step guide in this article. So let’s get started.
How Instagram Decides Whether Your Reel Deserves 10k Views
Instagram decides which Reel deserves 10k views using a few methods.
- First, it shows the Reel to followers.
- Next, it delivers the Reel to your non-followers.
- It sends the Reel to influencers and major creators.
However, this is only possible if your Reel has a good initial engagement rate. Because algorithm checks:
- How long people are watching the Reel (watch time)
- Is the Reel completing or being skipped?
- Are people liking, sharing, saving, or commenting?
If you’re getting strong results from your audience, your Reel is pushed to further audiences. But if no one is watching the reel then both reach and engagement end and views on the reel stop coming.
The First 60 Minutes Algorithm Test: Why Early Signals Decide Your Reach
The first 60 minutes after posting a Reel on Instagram are very important because the algorithm treats this time as a testing phase. During this period, Instagram checks how people react to your Reel. If users watch the Reel till the end and interact with it, the algorithm starts showing it to more people.
However, if your Reel does not get enough attention—such as low likes, very few interactions, or many people skipping it—the algorithm assumes the content is not interesting. Because of this, the Reel stops getting pushed to new audiences.
For a Reel to reach a larger audience, it must have these key qualities:
Strong hook → Viewers should stop scrolling within the first 2 seconds
Decent retention → The Reel should be watched till the end or replayed
Early engagement → It should receive some likes, saves, or shares early
#1 Reason Reels Fail Before 10k Views: Weak Hook
Did you know that all major creators use a strong hook to make their Reels go viral?
The Role of the First 1–2 Seconds
The reason we recommend using a hook in a Reel is because the first 1–2 seconds play a very important role. This is the moment when it is decided whether your Reel will move forward or fail. If these first seconds are weak, getting even 1,000 views on Instagram Reels can become difficult.
You should use a hook that makes the user stop scrolling. For example:
Scroll-stopping hook examples
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- “Stop scrolling if you want more Reel views.”
- “This is why your Reels aren’t going viral.”
- “How to get 10k views on Instagram Reels.”
However, a text-based hook alone is not enough. You also need strong visuals. This is because whether it’s a user or the algorithm, visuals are noticed first, and text is noticed after that.
Common hook mistakes
1. Slow intro
Instead of a slow start, directly show or explain the user’s main problem and the result they will get after watching the Reel.
2. Logo in the first frame
Showing your logo in the first frame is a mistake. It is better to place it at the end of the Reel.
3. No curiosity
Create curiosity so users want to watch till the end and come back for your next videos.
Providing incomplete information
Use surprising or unexpected statements
The 3 Core Organic Strategies to Hit 10k Views
1. Timing Makes the Difference
Posting at the right time is very important. Users are not active on Instagram all the time, and they are often busy. Because of this, posting without knowing the right timing makes it very hard to reach 10k views on Instagram Reels.
Best days and times to post:
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM
- Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
- Thursday: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM ⭐
Avoid these days and times:
- Monday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
2. Smart Caption + On-Screen Text Alignment
The Instagram algorithm prefers captions, so always write captions using natural and simple keywords. Add a clear and strong CTA at the end.
Text alignment on the screen is also very important. Even small alignment mistakes can break a user’s attention and cause them to skip the Reel.
3. Share & Save Triggers
You may have seen captions like:
- “Send this Reel to a friend who makes this mistake every day.”
- “I missed this earlier. Save it if you want to get 10,000 views.”
These CTAs are the main reason people actually save and share Reels. More saves and shares mean higher engagement, which helps your Reel reach more people.
How to create these types of CTAs
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- Understand your audience’s problems and offer clear solutions.
- Share information that is genuinely useful.
- Understand your audience’s problems and offer clear solutions.
- Create content that people feel confident tagging their friends in.
Conclusion
Following a trend can help you get views, but reaching 10,000+ views is difficult without a proper strategy. By following smart strategies, you can get more views on any Instagram Reel. So, if you are wondering how to get 10k views on Instagram Reels for free, do not rely on luck. Instead, focus on good content and consistency. When your content matches the strategies preferred by the Instagram algorithm, your posts naturally reach more people.
