how to write twitter threads that go viral

Twitter threads can reach millions of people and build your following faster than any other format. But most threads flop. Here's what separates viral threads from forgotten ones.

the hook tweet

Your first tweet determines everything. It needs to: - Stop the scroll - Promise clear value - Create curiosity

Formulas that work: - "I spent [time] studying [topic]. Here's what I learned:" - "[Number] [topic] tips that changed my [outcome]:" - "Most people get [topic] wrong. Here's the truth:"

thread length

Sweet spot: 7-15 tweets - Under 7 feels incomplete - Over 15 tests patience - Break very long topics into multiple threads

structure for engagement

Tweet 1: Hook Tweet 2: Context/credibility Tweets 3-N: Main content (one idea per tweet) Final tweet: Summary + CTA

one idea per tweet

Each tweet should contain one complete thought. Don't split sentences across tweets. Make each tweet valuable standalone.

add a "save this" tweet

Include a tweet that's screenshot-worthy: - A framework or model - A memorable quote - A simple checklist

This increases saves and shares.

the callback close

End by referencing your hook: - "These [number] [topic] tips helped me [result]" - Link back to tweet 1 for easy retweet

visual elements

Threads with visuals perform better: - Screenshots - Charts or graphs - Simple diagrams - Memes (if appropriate)

best times to post

Generally: 8-10 AM and 4-6 PM (your audience's timezone) Tuesdays through Thursdays perform best Test and check your analytics

engagement strategies

• Reply to your own thread to bump it
• Ask a question in the final tweet
• Quote tweet your hook after a few hours
• Engage with replies quickly (first hour is crucial)

common thread mistakes

• Weak hook (loses readers immediately)
• Too much filler
• Tweets that require the previous tweet to make sense
• No clear structure or progression
• Forgetting the CTA
• Posting at dead times

repurposing threads

One thread can become: - A blog post - A LinkedIn post - An email newsletter - A YouTube script - Instagram carousel

thread ideas

• Lessons from [experience]
• How I [achieved result]
• [Number] mistakes in [topic]
• Breakdown of [successful thing]
• Unpopular opinions about [industry]

Consistency matters more than any single thread. Post regularly, study what works, and refine your approach.