X (formerly Twitter) continues to be a powerful social media platform in 2026. Whether you’re completely new to the platform or looking to refresh your skills, getting started with X is simpler than you might think. The most effective way to use X is to first set up a complete profile, then follow accounts relevant to your interests, and actively engage with content through likes, retweets, and replies.
The platform has evolved over the years but maintains its core functionality of connecting people through short-form content. New users can download the app from their device’s app store and create an account in just a few minutes. Once set up, the experience becomes personalized as you follow accounts and interact with trending topics that match your interests.
Many people find X valuable for staying updated on news, connecting with communities, and sharing ideas. The platform’s real-time nature makes it particularly useful for following breaking news and participating in conversations about current events. By understanding basic features like hashtags, retweets, and direct messages, anyone can quickly become comfortable navigating X’s social environment.
How to Use X (Formerly Twitter): A Complete Beginner’s Guide + Latest FAQs
X, formerly known as Twitter, is a real‑time social media platform where people share short posts, follow topics, join conversations, and stay updated on news, trends, and creators. Whether you’re brand new or returning after recent changes, this guide explains how to use X step by step and answers the most common questions people ask today.
What Is X (Formerly Twitter)?
X is a social platform built around short posts called posts (previously tweets). Users can:
- Share text, images, videos, and links
- Follow people and topics
- Join public conversations
- Send private messages
- Monetize content (for eligible users)
Despite the name change, many features still feel familiar to longtime Twitter users.
How to Create an X Account
Step‑by‑Step
- Go to x.com or download the X app
- Sign up with:
- Email address or
- Phone number
- Choose a display name and username (@handle)
- Verify your account
- Set a profile photo and bio
✅ Usernames are unique
✅ Display names can be changed anytime
Understanding the X Interface
Home Feed
- Shows posts from people you follow
- Includes recommended content based on activity
For You vs Following
- For You: Algorithm‑based content
- Following: Only posts from accounts you follow
Explore
- Trending topics
- Breaking news
- Popular discussions by category
Notifications
- Likes, replies, reposts, mentions
- Follower alerts
Messages
- Direct messages (DMs)
- Can be restricted to verified users or followers
How to Post on X
Creating a Post
- Click Post
- Add text (character limits vary)
- Attach media if desired
- Click Post
Post Length
- Free users: Limited characters
- X Premium users: Longer posts enabled
You can also:
- Reply to posts
- Quote posts (add your own comment)
- Repost (formerly retweet)
How Following and Engagement Work
Following
- Follow accounts to see their posts in your feed
- Unfollow anytime
Likes, Replies, and Reposts
- Like: Shows appreciation
- Reply: Join the conversation
- Repost: Share with followers
Engaging increases visibility in the algorithm.
Hashtags, Mentions, and Trends
Hashtags (#)
- Help categorize posts
- Make content discoverable
Mentions (@username)
- Notify users directly
- Useful for conversations and support
Trending Topics
- Based on location and activity
- Update in real time
X Premium (Paid Subscription)
What X Premium Offers
- Blue checkmark (identity verification)
- Longer posts
- Post editing (within a time window)
- Priority ranking in replies
- Reduced ads
Subscription prices vary by region.
Privacy, Safety, and Content Controls
Privacy Options
- Public or protected posts
- Limit who can reply
- Mute or block accounts
- Filter sensitive content
Safety Tools
- Report abuse or spam
- Mute words or phrases
- Restrict DMs
How the Algorithm Works (Simplified)
X prioritizes posts based on:
- Engagement (likes, replies, reposts)
- Recency
- Interaction history
- Verified and Premium accounts (some boost)
Consistent posting and interaction improves reach.
Common Mistakes New Users Make
- Posting without a clear profile bio
- Overusing hashtags
- Engaging with spam or bot accounts
- Ignoring privacy settings
- Posting links without context
Latest FAQs and Common Questions About X
Is X the same as Twitter?
Yes. X is Twitter rebranded with expanded features and a broader vision.
Why was Twitter renamed to X?
The platform rebranded to reflect a shift toward becoming an “everything app” that includes media, payments, and creator tools.
Do tweets still exist on X?
They’re now called posts, but many users still say “tweet.”
Is X free to use?
Yes. X is free, with optional X Premium subscriptions.
Why do some users have a blue checkmark?
Blue checkmarks now indicate:
- Identity verification
- Active X Premium subscription
Can you make money on X?
Yes, eligible users can earn through:
- Ad revenue sharing
- Subscriptions
- Tips and creator monetization tools
Why am I seeing posts from people I don’t follow?
The For You feed recommends content based on interests and trends.
Can I edit posts on X?
Only X Premium users can edit posts within a limited time after posting.
Is X safe to use?
X provides safety tools, but users should:
- Avoid suspicious links
- Use two‑factor authentication
- Report harmful content
Can I delete or deactivate my account?
Yes.
- Deactivation lasts 30 days
- After 30 days, the account is permanently deleted
Tips for Getting the Most Out of X
- Follow accounts relevant to your interests
- Engage consistently
- Use clear, concise posts
- Add visuals when possible
- Join trending discussions thoughtfully
Final Thoughts
X (formerly Twitter) remains one of the most powerful platforms for real‑time information, networking, and public conversation. While the name and features have evolved, the core experience—sharing ideas quickly and globally—remains the same.
Key Takeaways
- Setting up a complete profile with a photo and bio helps attract followers and establishes your presence on X.
- Following accounts related to your interests and engaging with trending topics creates a personalized feed of relevant content.
- Regular interaction through likes, comments, and retweets builds community connections and increases your visibility on the platform.
Setting Up Your X Profile
Setting up an effective X profile is essential for making a strong impression and building your online presence. A well-optimized profile helps others find you and understand who you are or what your business offers.
Creating a X Account
To get started with X, visit the website or download the mobile app. Click “Sign Up” and enter your name, email address or phone number, and birth date. Choose a unique username (also called a handle) that represents you or your business.
Your handle should be memorable, relatively short, and relevant to your identity. Many users prefer to include their actual name or business name in their handle. For businesses, consistency across social platforms is key for brand recognition.
After creating your account, X will guide you through initial steps like following accounts and setting preferences. You can also switch to a professional account by clicking “Switch to professional” in your profile, which provides additional features for businesses and creators.
Optimizing Your Profile Information
Your bio is limited to 160 characters, so make every word count. Include relevant keywords related to your interests, expertise, or business offerings. This helps with discoverability through X’s search function.
Location information can help connect you with local followers. Include your website link to drive traffic to your main online presence. Consider pinning an important tweet to the top of your profile to highlight key information.
For businesses, include:
- What you offer
- Your brand voice
- Relevant hashtags
- Business hours if applicable
Remember that your profile is often the first impression people have of you or your business online, so ensure it accurately represents your identity and purpose on X.
Choosing a Profile and Cover Photo
Your profile photo should be clear and recognizable even at a small size. For individuals, a well-lit headshot works best. For businesses, your logo is typically the optimal choice for brand recognition.
Recommended dimensions for profile photos are 400×400 pixels. The image will appear as a circle on the platform, so center your subject accordingly.
The cover photo (or header image) is your profile’s largest visual element at 1500×500 pixels. Use this space to:
- Showcase your personality or brand aesthetic
- Highlight products or services
- Display a tagline or slogan
- Feature team members for business accounts
Both images should be high-quality and align with your personal or brand identity. Consistent visuals help with recognition across marketing channels and strengthen your online presence.
Securing Your Account with a Strong Password
Creating a secure password is crucial for protecting your X account. Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid easily guessable information like birthdays or common words.
X recommends passwords that are at least 10 characters long. Consider using a password manager to create and store complex passwords securely. Never use the same password across multiple platforms.
Enable two-factor authentication for additional security. This feature sends a verification code to your phone when logging in from new devices. You can set this up in your account settings under “Security and account access.”
Regularly check your account access to ensure no unauthorized apps have permissions. Review connected applications periodically and revoke access for any unfamiliar or unused services to maintain optimal account security.
Mastering X Functionality
X offers a robust set of features that can help users connect with others and share ideas effectively. Learning to use these tools properly can transform your experience on the platform and expand your reach significantly.
Understanding the X Timeline
The X timeline is where users see tweets from accounts they follow. In 2026, X uses an algorithm that shows tweets based on relevance rather than just chronological order. This means users often see popular tweets or content from accounts they interact with most frequently at the top.
To get the most from your timeline, regularly review who you follow. Remove accounts that no longer interest you and add new ones that align with your current interests.
X offers two timeline views: “For You” and “Following.” The “For You” tab shows recommended content based on your interactions, while “Following” displays only tweets from accounts you follow in chronological order.
Pro users can customize their timelines further by filtering out specific keywords or hashtags they don’t want to see.
The Art of Crafting Effective Tweets
Effective tweets capture attention quickly and encourage engagement. Though X allows 280 characters, the most successful tweets are often concise and to the point.
Adding visual elements significantly increases engagement. Tweets with images get 150% more retweets than text-only posts. Videos and GIFs also perform exceptionally well.
Structure matters too. Use short paragraphs and bullet points for readability. Bold important information when possible.
Best practices for tweets in 2026:
- Ask questions to encourage replies
- Use emojis strategically (but don’t overdo it)
- Create threads for longer content
- Schedule tweets during peak engagement hours
- Include a clear call to action when appropriate
Remember that authenticity resonates with audiences. Tweets that feel genuine typically perform better than overly promotional content.
Utilizing Hashtags for Greater Reach
Hashtags help categorize content and make tweets discoverable by users beyond your followers. They remain one of X’s most powerful features for expanding reach.
Research shows that tweets with 1-2 relevant hashtags receive 21% more engagement than those without. However, using more than 3 hashtags can appear spammy and reduce effectiveness.
Trending hashtags offer opportunities to join popular conversations. X’s Explore tab shows current trends, which can be filtered by location or topic.
Effective hashtag strategies:
- Use industry-specific hashtags to reach targeted audiences
- Create branded hashtags for campaigns or events
- Join existing conversations with established hashtags
- Research competitor hashtags to understand what works
Avoid hashtag hijacking (using unrelated popular hashtags) as this can damage your reputation and potentially violate X’s terms of service.
Engaging With Other Users Through Likes and Retweets
Engagement is the currency of X. Likes show appreciation for content, while retweets share it with your followers. Both actions help build relationships and increase visibility.
When you retweet content, consider adding your own comment to provide context or additional value. This “quote tweet” approach shows thoughtfulness and helps establish your voice.
Responding to tweets from industry leaders or potential connections can help build your network. Ask thoughtful questions or add valuable insights to start conversations.
Remember that engagement should be genuine. Mass-liking or retweeting without consideration can appear inauthentic or bot-like.
Set aside time daily to engage with your feed. Even 15 minutes of thoughtful interaction can significantly improve your X presence and follower growth.
Leveraging Lists and Communities for Networking
X Lists allow users to organize accounts into curated feeds. This feature helps manage information overload by grouping similar accounts together.
Create separate lists for different interests, industries, or purposes. For example, a marketer might have lists for industry news, competitors, clients, and thought leaders.
Lists can be private or public. Public lists offer networking opportunities, as users receive notifications when added to them.
X Communities function like focused groups around specific topics. They provide spaces for more targeted discussions than the main timeline.
Benefits of Communities:
- Connect with like-minded users
- Share specialized knowledge
- Reduce noise and irrelevant content
- Build stronger relationships with fewer distractions
Both lists and communities help users find valuable connections and content that might otherwise get lost in busy timelines.
Managing Notifications and Reducing Spam
Effective notification management is crucial for a productive X experience. The platform offers granular control over what notifications you receive and from whom.
Visit Settings → Notifications to customize your preferences. You can filter notifications by quality, limit alerts to people you follow, or mute notifications from specific users without unfollowing them.
For unwanted interactions, X provides several tools:
- Mute: Removes a user’s content from your timeline without them knowing
- Block: Prevents a user from seeing your tweets or interacting with you
- Report: Alerts X to potential violations of platform rules
Spam accounts often follow similar patterns. Be wary of accounts with few followers, generic profile images, or those that immediately send promotional direct messages after following.
Consider enabling two-factor authentication to protect your account from unauthorized access.
Frequently Asked Questions
X offers numerous features and functions that users often have questions about. Understanding how to navigate this social platform effectively can significantly improve your experience and results.
What are the steps to set up a professional profile on Twitter?
Setting up a professional X profile begins with choosing a username that represents your brand or name. This username should be easy to remember and relevant to your identity or business.
Adding a professional photo or logo as your profile picture helps with recognition. Your profile picture should be clear and appropriate for your intended audience.
Craft a compelling bio that explains who you are and what value you offer in 160 characters or less. Include relevant keywords and perhaps a link to your website or other social platforms.
Complete your profile with a header image that complements your brand aesthetic. This larger banner space gives you additional visual real estate to make an impression.
How can you effectively use X for networking and personal branding?
Consistent posting is key to building visibility on Twitter. Experts recommend sharing content 3-5 times daily for optimal engagement.
Engaging with others’ content through likes, retweets, and thoughtful comments helps build relationships. This reciprocal interaction often leads to more followers and stronger connections.
Using relevant hashtags increases the discoverability of your posts. Research popular hashtags in your industry and incorporate them naturally into your tweets.
Sharing valuable content that helps your audience solve problems positions you as an authority. This might include tips, insights, or resources related to your expertise.
What are the latest features introduced on X and how can they be utilized?
X Communities allow users to join topic-based groups where they can connect with others who share their interests. This feature helps users find relevant conversations more easily.
X Spaces enables live audio conversations. Creators can host discussions, interviews, or casual chats with followers, providing a more intimate way to connect.
Super Follows lets creators charge for exclusive content. This subscription model provides a way for influencers and content creators to monetize their X presence.
X Blue, a premium subscription service, offers features like bookmark folders, undo tweet, and ad-free articles from participating websites.
Are there new guidelines for browsing X content without creating an account?
Visitors can now view tweets and profiles without logging in or creating an account. This allows casual browsing of public content across the platform.
Search functionality is available to non-users, enabling them to find specific topics, hashtags, or accounts. This can be useful for research purposes without commitment.
Limited interaction capabilities exist for non-users. While viewing is permitted, engagement features like replying, retweeting, or liking require account creation.
Some content restrictions may apply based on regional regulations. Certain countries have restrictions on viewing particular types of content without verification.
What best practices should users follow to maintain a positive presence on Twitter?
Fact-checking information before sharing helps maintain credibility. Misinformation spreads quickly on social media, so verifying sources is essential.
Responding to comments and messages promptly shows engagement and builds community. Even a simple acknowledgment can strengthen relationships with followers.
Avoiding controversial topics unless they directly relate to your brand’s mission reduces unnecessary conflict. Being mindful of potential divisiveness keeps your profile focused.
Using Twitter’s privacy and security settings appropriately protects your account and personal information. Regularly reviewing these settings is recommended.
How can beginners learn the fundamentals of X through available resources?
Twitter’s Help Center provides comprehensive guides for new users. These official resources cover everything from account setup to advanced features.
Third-party tutorials on platforms like YouTube offer visual demonstrations. Many content creators produce step-by-step videos that can be easier to follow than written instructions.
Following social media experts provides ongoing education about platform updates. Industry leaders often share tips and insights about emerging best practices.
Practice remains the most effective learning method. Regular use of the platform builds familiarity with its features and community norms.
