The Exact Limits

Instagram bio field allows 150 characters. Your name field gets 30 characters (separate from your @handle). The website field takes one URL.

What Counts as a Character?

  • Letters and numbers: 1 character each
  • Emoji: 2 characters each (sometimes 4 for complex emoji)
  • Line breaks: 1 character each
  • Spaces: 1 character each

How to Maximize 150 Characters

  1. Use the name field for keywords ("Jane | Fitness Coach")
  2. Put your value prop in the bio field first
  3. Use abbreviations: NYC, LA, UK, CEO, RN
  4. Skip filler words: "the", "a", "just"
  5. Test emoji vs words: "📍 NYC" saves characters over "Based in New York City"

Common Mistakes

  • Wasting the name field on your actual name (use it for SEO)
  • Using too many emoji that eat character count
  • Not using line breaks to separate ideas visually
  • Putting the CTA last instead of making it prominent