X/Twitter Glossary

What is The Algorithm?

The X algorithm is the system that decides which posts appear in users' For You feeds, in what order, and how widely they're distributed.

Full Explanation

X's algorithm analyzes hundreds of signals to determine which content to show each user. Key factors include: engagement velocity (how quickly a post gets engagement after posting), your relationship with the viewer (do they engage with you often?), content type (images, threads, and polls often perform differently), recency, and topic relevance. The algorithm learns what each user likes and tries to show them more of it. X's algorithm code was partially open-sourced in 2023, revealing that replies are weighted heavily, and that engagement in the first hour dramatically affects distribution.

Why It Matters

Understanding the algorithm is essential for growing on X. Many creators blame the algorithm for poor performance, but usually the issue is not creating content optimized for how the algorithm works. Working with the algorithm—not against it—can 10x your reach. The algorithm isn't your enemy; it's a system you can learn to leverage.

Examples

  • A post that gets 50 replies in the first hour will be boosted more than one with 50 likes
  • Content from accounts you engage with frequently appears higher in your feed
  • The algorithm tests posts with a small audience first, then expands if engagement is good
  • Controversial content often gets boosted because it drives engagement (replies, quote tweets)

Tips for Creators

  • 1.Focus on getting replies—the algorithm weights them heavily
  • 2.Post when your audience is online for maximum early engagement
  • 3.Engage with replies quickly to signal the post is worth distributing
  • 4.Avoid pods and fake engagement—the algorithm detects it
  • 5.Study what content formats the algorithm is currently favoring
Related Poaster Feature:Poast Analyzer

Poast Analyzer scores your posts before publishing to predict how well they'll perform with the algorithm.

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