How to run Instagram ads — step by step
Instagram ads are Meta ads that run on Instagram. You can make them from the Instagram app with the Boost button, or properly through Meta's ad tools for more control. Here's the full process, in order.
Step 1 — Switch to a professional account
In Instagram, go to Settings → Account type and tools → Switch to professional account and choose Business. Add your category, contact details and address.
Step 2 — Connect a Facebook Page
Instagram ads are managed through Meta's ad system, so connect your Instagram account to your business's Facebook Page. This also lets one ad run on both apps.
Step 3 — Set up payment
Ads are paid from a Meta ad account using a card or UPI, depending on what Meta offers your account. Meta adds GST to ad charges billed in India.
Step 4 — Choose your goal
- Messages: customers tap and chat with you on WhatsApp or in Instagram DMs. This is the best goal for most local shops.
- Calls: for services people book by phone.
- Website visits: if you have a good website or online store.
- Profile visits: builds followers, but not always customers.
Step 5 — Choose the audience
Pick your city or area, a sensible age range and a few interests related to what you sell. Read our local targeting guide.
Step 6 — Pick the format
| Format | Size | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Feed photo | 1:1 or 4:5 | One product or offer, little text on the image |
| Carousel | 1:1 | Several products or a before/during/after story |
| Stories | 9:16 | Full-screen; put the offer in the first second |
| Reels | 9:16 video | 10–30 seconds, real people, captions on (Reels ads guide) |
Step 7 — Write the caption
Put the offer and your area in the first line, because longer captions get cut off. Add one clear action: "Tap to WhatsApp us". See ad examples.
Step 8 — Set the budget and launch
Start with ₹200–₹500 a day for 5–7 days, then judge by the messages and sales you got, not by likes. See Instagram ads cost in India.
Boost from the app, or a proper ad?
Boosting a post from the Instagram app is quick but gives fewer choices. A proper ad lets you pick the goal, the placements and the button. GigaEasy gives you the proper version without the complexity: our AI writes the ad, a person on our team checks it, and it runs on Instagram and Facebook together. Part of our Meta ads guide.
Run your first ad in about 10 minutes
Your first 3 campaigns on GigaEasy are free — no plan needed. Ad budget from ₹100/day, paid directly to Meta.
Start freeFrequently asked questions
Do I need a Facebook Page to run Instagram ads?
To use Meta's full ad tools you should connect Instagram to a Facebook Page and a Meta ad account. It also lets the same ad run on both apps.
How much do Instagram ads cost in India?
You set the daily budget yourself. Many local businesses start with ₹200–₹500 a day. On GigaEasy you can start from ₹100 a day.
Are Reels or photo ads better?
Many businesses get cheaper results from short Reels, but it depends on your product. Running both lets Meta find what works.