How to Make a Thread on X (formerly Twitter)

This article explains how to create an X thread. Threads are connected to one another and read as one continuous post. Use threads to elaborate on an idea or thought that can't be expressed in a single tweet. The phrase also describes a tweet with several replies by multiple users.

How to Create an X Thread

The simplest way to create an X thread is to publish a tweet, then reply directly to it the same way you would reply to a tweet written by someone else. After the second tweet is published, reply to it with a third tweet and continue until your thread is finished.

While easy to use, one big problem with this method is your followers can begin replying to your tweets as each is published, before your entire thread is finished. This can cause some unintended miscommunication and confusion, as people may begin asking questions about something you intend to add to the thread, but haven’t had a chance to write yet.

One way to avoid such a situation is to use X’s built-in thread feature, which lets you compose an entire X thread of numerous tweets that can be published at once.

This X thread tool is built into the X website and apps. Here’s how to use it.

1. Open the X website or the official X app on your iOS or Android device.

2. Tap the compose icon to begin a new tweet. It looks like a floating blue circle with a pen in it.

   On the X website, select the "What's happening" box at the top of the home page.

3. Type your first tweet as usual.

   

   Don’t forget about hashtags. It can be easy to focus only on the writing when composing an X thread, but don’t forget to use at least one hashtag in each tweet to make it more discoverable by users.

4. Select the blue + icon in the lower-right corner.

5. Type your second tweet.

   Every tweet in a thread is its own entryway into your conversation, so cast as wide a net as possible. If you’re making a thread about Star Wars, for example, don't use #StarWars in every single tweet. Shake things up with related tags like #TheRiseOfSkywalker and #MayThe4th in your other posts.

6. Repeat until you've finished your X thread.

   Use gifs, images, and videos. Adding media to each tweet in a thread is a great way to keep your audience engaged, especially if your thread is a long one. Try adding funny gifs that express what you’re feeling in each individual tweet.

7. When you're ready to publish, tap Tweet all. Your X thread will now publish.

   

   A common practice is to type the number of tweets in a thread in each post to help readers navigate your posts, like "1/5" for the first tweet, "2/5" for the second tweet, etc. This can be good for short threads, but it's best to avoid this for lengthier threads as that can make it look too intimidating.

Are X Threads and Tweetstorms the Same Thing?

X threads and tweetstorms can be the same thing, but not always.

A tweetstorm is when someone posts numerous tweets in quick succession. If these tweets are replies to one another, they would also be called a thread since the reply function would link them together.

This isn't always the case, though, and many tweetstorms simply consist of individual tweets with no connection to each other or any connecting context.

The phrase "tweetstorm" can also be used to describe multiple X users posting about the same topic, but this usage has become a bit old fashioned.