How to Reply to a Message on Instagram — The Answer!

We commonly use social media like Instagram to get the latest updates and inspiring photos and videos all over the world.

But aside from the vivid visuals, Instagram allows its users to connect with the rest of the community through its messaging app.

But, how do you exactly use Instagram’s messaging feature when I want to reply to a message?

 

How to Reply to a Message on Instagram

First, head to the top right of the screen and click the Messenger icon. Then, once you’re in Instagram’s messaging app, click or tap on a particular conversation. Press to the right on the mobile app or click the ellipsis icon in the desktop app to activate the Reply button.

 

Replying to Messages on Instagram: Basic Steps

Replying to Messages on Instagram isn’t as complicated as it seems. 

You only need to know how to navigate and activate the feature for you to enjoy using it based on what device you’re using.

To start with, let’s take a look at how you can reply to an Instagram message when you’re on your desktop.

 

Replying to Instagram Messages through the Web Version (Desktop)

Granting that you’re already logged into your account, here’s what you’re supposed to do next.

Step 1: Once you’re in your Instagram feed, click the messenger icon you’ll find beside the Home button.

You won’t go astray with finding Instagram’s messenger icon as you’ll find the number of messages you’re receiving as red numbers.

Click on it to enter the messenger area of Instagram.

Step 2: In the Messenger app, click on the person’s name to begin responding to the conversation.

Step 3: After reading the message, hover over it and click the right-pointing arrow icon. This is the Reply button.

Type in the message field your response before you press Enter on your keyboard to reply.

You can also click the Send button to achieve the same effect.

You’ll then notice a faded copy of the message bubble you’re responding to. 

This enables both the receiver and you, the sender, to know what particular message of the conversation you’re responding to.

And, with those three steps, you’ve successfully replied to a message on Instagram.

But, do remember though that we’ve only discussed how to go about responding to Instagram messages on the desktop app.

How about if you’re using a mobile phone instead? Do the same steps still apply?

 

Replying to an Instagram Message in the Mobile App

Note: There are slight differences in replying to a message in the mobile app depending on what OS you’re using — Android or iOS.

For demonstration purposes, let’s focus more on the Android version.

Step 1: Once you’re logged into your Instagram account, go to the upper right of the feed and click the messenger icon.

The page will then refresh to Instagram’s messenger app.

Step 2: In the message feed, scroll down until you see the conversation you want to respond to. 

If you find it, tap on that particular conversation to open it.

Step 3: After reading the last message your friend sent you, long press on the message until you see the reactions bar and message options appear.

Head to the lower left of your mobile phone screen to press the Reply button.

Proceed with typing your reply inside the message box.

Step 4: Once you’re done typing out your response, click the send button.

You’ll then notice that your message appears like an attachment to the message you responded to.

In that way, it’s easier for both of you to track what part of the conversation you’re referring to.

And, just like that, you’ve successfully replied to a message on Instagram from your mobile phone.

So, are you now confident enough to begin corresponding with your Instagram friends?

 

Frequently Asked Questions about How to Reply to a Message on Instagram

 

Is it possible to reply to an Instagram message from a person that doesn’t follow my account?

You still can reply to a message sent by an Instagram user not following your account. But, you’ll find that particular message in the Message Requests section instead.

 

How do I reply to a particular message in the conversation when I’m using Instagram on a desktop?

To activate the reply feature when accessing Instagram through a desktop, click on the ellipsis icon to the right of the message. Then, choose the Reply option from the choices given to you. Encode your response in the message area and click Send.