Mistakes Checklist
Common APA Instagram Post Citation Mistakes
Published studies report citation/reference error rates between 25-54%. Use this page to catch the most frequent formatting failures before submission.
Top mistakes to avoid
- ⚠Linking to the user's profile instead of the specific post.
- ⚠Omitting the format descriptor in brackets.
- ⚠Using only the handle without the real name or display name.
- ⚠Forgetting the exact publication date.
Fix checklist
- ✓Use the caption text as the title of the post.
- ✓Specify the format in brackets: [Photograph], [Video], or [Instagram post].
- ✓Use the permalink to the specific post, not the profile URL.
- ✓Only omit "Instagram" as the site name if the author's display name is also "Instagram" — otherwise it is redundant.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get the permalink for an Instagram post?
On desktop, click the post — the URL in your address bar is the permalink. On mobile, tap the three-dot menu on a post and select "Copy Link."
What descriptor should I use in brackets?
Use [Photograph] for a photo post, [Video] for a video or reel, or [Instagram post] if it contains a mix of media.
Build the corrected citation now
Use the template and guide, then generate the final citation from verified academic sources.