How to add subtitles to Reels on Instagram

Subtitles in Reels help viewers who watch without sound and improve accessibility and understanding. On Instagram you can add text manually or – in some versions – enable auto captions. Here's how.

When it's relevant

• Viewers without sound – Most viewers watch in silence. Text on screen improves retention.
• Content with speech – Explanations, tips or stories – subtitles help understanding.
• Accessibility – Subtitles support viewers who hear less well or watch in a noisy environment.

How to add subtitles – step by step

1. Open the Reel in edit mode – After uploading or recording video, you're on the edit screen (before "Share to Reels").

2. Manual text – Tap the T (text) icon at the top. Type the caption. Drag to position, resize and change color. You can add multiple text blocks for different parts of the video.

3. Auto captions (if available) – On some devices you'll see "Captions" or "Subtitles." Select it and Instagram will detect speech and add text. Review and fix errors.

4. Sync with the video – For manual: add a block per sentence and set how long it shows (tap the text and choose duration). The caption appears when the speech is said.

5. Save and publish – After all subtitles are in place, continue to caption and hashtags and tap "Share to Reels."

Common mistakes

• Text too small – Make sure the caption is readable on a small screen. Size and contrast matter.
• One long caption for the whole Reel – Better to split into short sentences that sync with speech.
• Not checking before publishing – Typos or bad sync distract from the video.

Summary

Add subtitles to Reels via the text icon (T) – manual text per section – or with auto captions if available. Adjust size and color and sync with the video. Subtitles improve understanding and retention.

Next steps

• How to make Reels on Instagram – Reels basics
• How to upload Reels in high quality – better viewing
• Reels optimal length – length and retention