To add text to an Instagram Reel, open the Reel editor, tap Aa, type your words, and drag them into place. To control when the text shows, open the edit timeline and drag the text clip's ends to the moments you want. For text that looks the same on TikTok and Shorts too, burn it in first with the MobileStudio Add Text to Video tool, then upload the MP4.
The short answer
| Step | In Instagram |
|---|---|
| Add text | Reel editor > Aa > type |
| Style | Choose a font, color, and background |
| Time it | Open the timeline, drag the text clip's ends |
| Keep it visible | Stay clear of the bottom caption area and right buttons |
| Cross-post | Burn text in with the browser tool first |
How do I add text to a Reel in Instagram?
- Tap + and choose Reel, then record or pick a video.
- Tap Aa (text).
- Type your text and pick a font, color, and alignment. Tap the background icon for a solid box behind the text.
- Tap Done and drag the text into position.
How do I make text appear at different times in a Reel?
Open the Reel's editing timeline. Text you've added shows as its own clip under the video. Drag its ends to set when it appears and disappears, and add more texts for a sequence. Instagram changes its editor often, so the exact buttons may differ between versions, but the timeline is where timing lives.
Where should text go on an Instagram Reel?
| Area | Use |
|---|---|
| Top third | Hooks and titles |
| Center | Key words |
| Bottom fifth | Avoid; caption, username, and audio sit here |
| Right edge | Avoid; like, comment, and share buttons |
Reels are 9:16; Instagram's Reels help page lists the accepted sizes. If your video isn't vertical, see how to crop a video for Instagram.
How do I add text to a Reel before uploading?
- Open Add Text to Video in your phone's browser.
- Pick the video and type your text.
- Choose Top or Center, raise Text size, and keep Background on.
- Set when the text shows, then tap Add text & export.
- Post the MP4 as a Reel.
Burned-in text survives cross-posting, re-shares, and downloads exactly as you placed it.
What text works best on Reels?
A strong hook in the first second, then a few short lines that follow the video. Many people scroll with sound off, so text that explains what's happening keeps them watching. Use one or two fonts and the same colors across your Reels so they feel like a series.
How big should text be on a Reel?
Readable without zooming on a small phone. In the browser tool, 8 to 12% suits most text. Keep lines short; more in best font size for video text. Instagram's resolution help explains how it sizes images, which is a reminder to export at 1080 px wide. For a timed caption on TikTok as well, see add text to a TikTok video. TikTok's editing help covers its text tools.
Where MobileStudio fits
Add Text to Video is one of our free tools. MobileStudio itself turns screen recordings of your app into polished demos ready for Reels. Get MobileStudio.
Quick FAQ
How do I add text to an Instagram Reel?
Tap Aa in the Reel editor, type, and drag it into place.
How do I make text show at a certain time on Reels?
Open the timeline and drag the text clip's ends.
Why is my Reel text cut off?
It's too close to the edges or under the caption. Move it toward the center.
Can I edit text after posting a Reel?
Not the text on the video itself. Edit the clip and post it again.
Can I add text without Instagram's editor?
Yes. Use Add Text to Video, then upload.
