How to Write Instagram Captions That Actually Convert

The HSC formula

• Hook — first line stops the scroll.
• Story — 1–3 short lines of context.
• CTA — one clear ask (save, share, comment, follow).

Examples

• Hook: "I grew from 0 to 10K followers in 90 days — here's the only thing that mattered."
• Story: "Posted 3 reels a week. Used 6 hashtags. Topped up early views with a free boost."
• CTA: "Save this so you don't lose it."

Mistakes

• Writing essays no one reads
• Burying the CTA at the bottom
• Asking for 3 things at once