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How to Make and Post a Facebook Reel

Learning how to post reels on Facebook is simpler than it looks: open the Facebook app, tap to create a Reel, add your clip, music, and captions, then publish. This guide walks you through making and posting a Facebook Reel from scratch - on both phone and desktop - plus the settings that help your video reach more people in 2026.

What you need before you start

Facebook Reels are short, vertical videos (up to 90 seconds) that play in a dedicated, scrollable feed. Before you learn how to make reels on Facebook, get a few basics ready so the process is smooth:

  • A Facebook account or Page: Personal profiles and Pages can both post Reels. Pages get access to more analytics and monetization options.
  • A vertical video clip: Shoot in 9:16 (portrait) for a full-screen look. You can also record directly inside the app.
  • The latest app version: Update Facebook from the App Store or Google Play so the Reels tools are current.
  • An idea or hook: A clear first 3 seconds keeps viewers watching. If you are new to the format, read our beginner overview of what Facebook Reels are first.

How to make Facebook Reels on your phone (step by step)

The mobile app is where most creators work because the recording and editing tools live there. Here is the full flow for how to create reels on Facebook using the app:

  1. Open the Facebook app and tap the + (Create) button, then choose Reel. You can also tap "Reels" in the menu and select Create.
  2. Add your video. Record a new clip by holding the capture button, or upload an existing one from your camera roll. You can string several clips together.
  3. Trim and arrange. Drag the clip edges to cut out dead space and reorder segments so the strongest moment comes first.
  4. Add music. Tap the audio or music icon and pick a track from Facebook's library. Trending audio can give your Reel an early boost.
  5. Add text, captions, and effects. Overlay on-screen text for context, turn on auto-captions for silent viewers, and apply filters or stickers if they fit your style.
  6. Preview your Reel. Play it back end to end and check timing, readability, and audio levels.
  7. Write a caption and hashtags. Add a short, clear description and 3-5 relevant hashtags to help discovery.
  8. Set your audience and share. Choose Public for maximum reach, then tap Share (or Next then Share) to publish.

That is the core process for how to make Facebook Reels. The first few will feel slow; after that it becomes a 5-minute routine.

Quick tip: Studying Reels that go viral? Save them for reference with our free Facebook Reels downloader - HD MP4, no app, no watermark.

How to post a Reel from a computer

You can also publish Reels from a desktop browser, which is handy when your footage is already edited on your PC or Mac. The desktop tools are lighter than the app, but they work well for straightforward uploads:

  1. Go to facebook.com and log in, then open your profile or Page.
  2. Click Reels in the left menu (or the Create option) and choose Create Reel.
  3. Upload your vertical MP4 file from your computer.
  4. Use the basic editor to trim the clip, add audio, and add text where available.
  5. Write your caption, choose the Public audience, and click Publish.

If you plan to record on your phone but edit on a bigger screen, you can move files between devices easily - our guide on downloading Facebook videos on PC and Mac covers transferring video both ways.

Tips to make your first Reels perform better

Posting is only half the job. These habits help your Reels get watched and shared:

  • Hook fast: Show the payoff or a bold statement in the first 1-3 seconds.
  • Keep it tight: Many top Reels are 7-20 seconds. Cut anything that drags.
  • Design for sound off: Use captions so people understand without audio.
  • Use trending audio: Pick rising tracks while they are fresh.
  • Add a clear call to action: Ask viewers to follow, comment, or watch your next Reel.
  • Post consistently: A steady schedule trains the algorithm and your audience.

For a deeper playbook on reach, see our full guide on how to get more views on Facebook Reels.

Can you make money from Facebook Reels?

Yes - eligible creators can earn from Reels through Facebook's monetization programs, though exact payouts vary widely. Earnings depend on your region, total qualifying views, engagement, and whether your account meets the current eligibility rules. There is no fixed rate, so treat any "per 1,000 views" figure as a rough range rather than a guarantee. For realistic numbers and how payouts work, read our breakdown of how much Facebook pays for Reels in 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can a Facebook Reel be?

Facebook Reels can be up to 90 seconds long. Shorter Reels (around 7-30 seconds) often hold attention better, but you have room to tell a slightly longer story when the content calls for it.

Do I need a Page to post Reels, or can I use my profile?

Both work. Personal profiles can post Reels, and so can Facebook Pages. Pages generally unlock more detailed analytics and monetization features, which is useful if you want to grow seriously.

Can I post the same Reel to Instagram?

Yes. Facebook often gives you an option to share your Reel to Instagram during publishing, or you can upload the same vertical MP4 to both apps. Cross-posting helps you reach two audiences with one piece of content.

Why can't I find the Reels create button?

Make sure your Facebook app is fully updated, since the create flow changes over time. The button usually lives behind the + Create icon or the Reels tab. If it is still missing, restart the app or reinstall the latest version.

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