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Story Ad

Vertical, full-screen ads that appear between user stories on social platforms.

Definition

Story ads are vertical, full-screen advertisements that appear between user-generated stories on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat.

Characteristics

  • 9:16 aspect ratio
  • 15-second max duration
  • Swipe-up for link
  • Immersive format

Best Practices

  • Fast-paced creative
  • Clear branding early
  • Strong visual hook

Why It Matters

Story ads appear in the full-screen vertical format on Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat Stories. They're immersive, take over the entire screen, and feel native to the browsing experience. Stories placements often have lower CPMs than feed ads while delivering strong engagement, making them a cost-effective way to reach your audience.

Examples

  • •A 15-second vertical video ad appearing between organic Instagram Stories
  • •A story ad with an interactive poll sticker asking "Which product would you choose?"
  • •A three-part story sequence showing problem → solution → offer with swipe-up CTA

Common Mistakes

  • ✕Using the same creative for feed and Stories without adapting to the vertical, full-screen format
  • ✕Not putting the key message and CTA within the first 3-5 seconds before the user taps through
  • ✕Overloading story ads with text — the format is visual-first, use minimal copy with strong imagery
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