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Tutorial short on Instagram Reels
Teach one thing in a single short - step-by-step, with captions naming every action.
What to produce
- 60s tutorial - 9:16, 60s
- Step-by-step carousel - 1:1
Recommended inputs
- Hands + props
- Screen recording
- Whiteboard
Platform-specific guidance
- Hook
- Lead with motion; Reels favours strong visual hooks.
- Aspect
- 9:16
- Duration
- 60s
- Captions
- Burned-in recommended
- Reframe 16:9 to 9:16
- Yes
- Safe-zone overlay
- Apply before upload
- Caption guidance
- Burned-in lower-thirds; Reels tolerates heavy captions.
Workflow
- Pick one thing to teach: If it needs more than 5 steps, split.
- Demonstrate each step: Show, don't just narrate.
- Add step captions: Number each step on screen. (Burn-in)
- Export pack: Vertical short + 1:1 carousel. (Content Pack)
- Reframe for Instagram Reels: 16:9 to 9:16 reframe; subject tracking. (Reframe)
- Apply platform safe-zone overlay: Use the Instagram Reels safe-zone overlay so subjects stay visible. (Safe-zone)
Pitfalls to avoid
- Tutorial that needs 5 minutes of context
- Step numbers invisible
Tools and presets
Frequently asked
How do I make a tutorial short for Instagram Reels?
Pick one thing to teach; Demonstrate each step; Add step captions; Export pack.
What aspect ratio should I use on Instagram Reels?
Use 9:16 (Instagram Reels's safe native ratio).
Do I need burned-in captions on Instagram Reels?
Yes - Instagram Reels feeds are predominantly muted, so burned-in captions are essential.
Which export preset should I pick?
Instagram Reels's SAFE_DEFAULT preset is documented at /tools/export/instagram-reels/reel.
Sources
YouTube Help - Creator playbooks (verified 2026-09-18) - HubSpot content types overview (verified 2026-09-18)