Multi‑part stories are back—now with a “Next Reel” button. Linked Reels let you connect episodes so viewers can watch in order without hunting for Part 2. Below you’ll find what Linked Reels are, when to use them, and the exact creative system we use for titles, covers, captions, and pacing—plus copy blocks to help you ship your first arc this week.
What Linked Reels are (and aren’t)
They’re a way to connect your own Reels into a series with a native Next control. They’re not external links, and they don’t change how your grid looks—this is about sequencing and retention, not bio‑link hacks.
When Linked Reels shine
Mini‑courses, launch rollouts, behind‑the‑scenes threads, FAQs, and any narrative with steps or chapters. If one Reel can’t carry the whole idea, split it into 3–7 crisp beats and link them.
How to link a Reel (quick)
During upload: share screen → Link a reel → pick related episodes → add short labels → publish.
After publish: open Reel → … → Link a reel → select episodes → save.
Viewer side: a Next Reel button appears so people can move through your arc in order.
Creative system that keeps people watching
Covers: one look across the arc; short headline + Ep # badge.
Titles:
Series | Ep X: Promise(≤ 48 chars).Hooks: land by 0–2s; write in plain English.
Captions: 1 takeaway + 1 action (Save or Share).
Legibility: high contrast, subtitles on, safe‑zones respected.
Consistency: same color, type, and motion cues (cursor pointer, gentle ease‑in text).
Publishing rhythm & measurement
Publish Ep 1–3 within a week to build momentum. Track: watch time to 3s/8–12s, completion rate, saves/shares, and profile visits from the series. Compare the first episode’s completion rate to the linked follow‑ups; aim for a steady climb as your audience commits.
Pitfalls to avoid
Vague titles (“Part 3”) without a promise.
Text outside safe‑zones; covered by UI.
Inconsistent covers that look unrelated.
No CTA to continue (“Next episode explains the how”).
Starter script (Episode 1 of 3)
Hook: “If captions are killing your reach, fix this first.”
Beat: show hook placement at 0–2s and a clear before/after.
Payoff: “Most views die before 3s—this fixes that.”
CTA: “Tap Next—Ep 2 shows keyword placement.”
CTA: Want the done‑for‑you version? We’ll map your next two weeks of Linked Reels—scripts, covers, captions—so you can post with confidence. Contact us.
Measurement & reporting
Primary: watch time (3s, 8–12s), completion rate per episode, saves, shares (DMs/reposts), profile visits.
Secondary: follows per episode, replies from Stories, comments that ask for more.
Review cadence: weekly snapshot + 30‑day roll‑up; note which episode and hook style retains best.
Production checklist
Clear promise in the title; Ep # visible.
Hook under 2s; payoff by 8–12s.
Text inside safe‑zones; subtitles on.
Consistent covers and motion cues.
One action per episode (Save/Share/Comment).
Link the series before publishing Ep 1.
Ready to turn one idea into a bingeable Linked Reels series? We’ll build the arc, write the scripts, design the covers, and ship a week’s worth of episodes in one sprint.
