In this article, you’ll learn:
- What hashtag research is
- Why it matters
- How to find the right hashtags
- Free tools you can use
- Pro tips for better reach
What is Hashtag Research?
Hashtag research is the process of finding relevant, popular, and low-competition hashtags that match your content. The goal is simple: increase visibility, reach the right audience, and improve engagement.
In short:
Right hashtags = More reach + Better engagement
Why is Hashtag Research Important?
- Increases Organic Reach
Hashtags help social media platforms categorize your content and show it to users who are interested in similar topics.
- Attracts Targeted Audience
Instead of random viewers, you reach people who are genuinely interested in your niche.
- Helps the Algorithm Understand Your Content
Platforms use hashtags to understand what your post is about and recommend it accordingly.
How to Do Hashtag Research (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Define Your Niche
First, be clear about your content category.
For example, if your niche is Graphic Design, your related topics might include:
- Logo Design
- Branding
- Freelancing
- Digital Marketing
Step 2: Mix High, Medium & Low Competition Hashtags
A smart strategy is to combine three types of hashtags:
- High Volume Hashtags – Very popular but competitive
- Medium Volume Hashtags – Balanced competition
- Low Competition Hashtags – Easier to rank and get visibility
Example (Graphic Design Niche):
- #graphicdesign
- #logodesigner
- #brandidentity
- #bangladesigner
This mix increases your chances of reaching both broad and targeted audiences.
Step 3: Analyze Competitors
Check successful creators in your niche:
- What hashtags do they use?
- Which posts get high engagement?
- Are they using niche-specific tags?
This helps you discover effective hashtag patterns.
Step 4: Use Hashtag Research Tools
Free Tools:
- Instagram search bar (shows related hashtags)
- Google Trends
- Pinterest search suggestions
Paid Tools:
- Ahrefs
- SEMrush
These tools help you identify trending keywords and search volume.
How Many Hashtags Should You Use?
- Instagram: 10–20 hashtags
- YouTube Shorts: 3–5 hashtags
- Facebook: 3–5 hashtags
Avoid overusing hashtags, as it can look spammy.
Pro Tips for 2026 Strategy
✔ Don’t use the exact same hashtags in every post
✔ Use local hashtags (#BangladeshBusiness, #DhakaDesigner)
✔ Follow trending topics
✔ Create your own branded hashtag
Example:
#DreamByteDesign
#SoloHustleTipsBranded hashtags help build identity and community.
Common Hashtag Mistakes
❌ Using only high-volume hashtags
❌ Adding irrelevant hashtags
❌ Copy-pasting the same hashtag list every time
❌ Ignoring niche-specific tags
Final Thoughts
Hashtag research is one of the most powerful yet overlooked growth strategies in social media marketing. When done correctly, it can significantly increase your organic reach and engagement.
Remember:
Content is King, but Hashtags Open the Door.