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.

Template + Example

APA Instagram Post Citation Template

Learn how to cite Instagram photos, videos, and reels in APA 7th edition. Includes template, real example, and formatting tips.

Copy-ready template

Author, A. A. [@handle]. (Year, Month Day). Caption or description [Photograph]. Instagram. URL

Filled example

Reference

NASA [@nasa]. (2024, November 15). The Pillars of Creation in stunning new detail from the James Webb Space Telescope [Photograph]. Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/p/DC5examplepost/

In-text citation

(NASA, 2024)

Field mapping

author: NASA [@nasa]
title: The Pillars of Creation in stunning new detail from the James Webb Space Telescope
site: Instagram
year: 2024, November 15
url: https://www.instagram.com/p/DC5examplepost/

Common mistakes

⚠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.

Need the full citation guide?

Open the complete guide for formatting rules, before/after examples, and detailed FAQ.

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