3 Foolproof Content Formulas for Social Media That Just Work

Social media can feel like a bit of a guessing game; one day your post gets a flurry of likes and shares, the next it’s like shouting into the wind across Ilkley Moor. But the truth is, the best posts often follow simple, proven formulas, and once you know them, you’ll start seeing them everywhere.

In this post, we’re sharing our top 3 social media content formulas, the kind your audience’s brain is already wired to respond to. There’s even a bit of psychology thrown in (don’t worry, no lab coats required) so you’ll know why they work, not just how.

So Why These Formulas Work?

We are creatures of habit, our brains like organisation and structure. We often spot patterns in things without even realising, and when we see something that “fits”, like a well-structured post, we’re more likely to stop scrolling and take notice.

Think of it like your favourite song. It’s got a verse, a chorus, and a particular beat, and your brain’s chuffed to bits with it. Social media content formulas are just the written version of that kind of rhythm.

1. Problem – Agitate – Solve (or PAS)

This one’s a classic that has been used in advertising since the year dot!. You start with a problem your audience knows well, poke it a bit (in a friendly way), and then swoop in with the answer. It’s like storytelling with a purpose.

Example

Struggling to think of what to post on social media?

You’re not alone, staring at a blank screen is enough to make anyone want to chuck their phone out the window.

That’s why we use simple content formulas that take the pressure off and get results.

This little approach works particularly well for businesses that offers a service, and shows that you have an understanding of their pain, and that you can fix it.

2. Hook – Value – Call to Action

This is a tidy little structure that gets straight to the point. Grab their attention, give them something helpful, and then tell them what to do next.

Example

Want more people engaging with your social media?

Try the three-line format: hook, value, call to action. It’s short, sharp, and gets results.

Need help writing posts like these? Give us a shout – we’re freelance writers in Yorkshire who live for this stuff.

This approach is perfect for short-form social posts, in particular for LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram. It works really well for growing Followers and lead generation.

3. Before – After – Bridge

People love a transformation story. This formula shows what life was like before, what it’s like now, and what made the difference. Think of it like a mini case study.

Example

Before: Barely any engagement on social media posts. After: Booked-out workshops and new enquiries every week.

What changed? They hired a freelance writer in Yorkshire (that’s us) to sort the messaging and sharpen the posts.

This works brilliant as mini testimonials, success stories or pitching your business on social media, can build trust with an audience, and doesn’t sound or look particularly salesy as an approach.

Bonus Tip: Mix and Match

Ok, as you read this far, we’ll give you a bonus tip!

You don’t have to use the same one every time. Try combining them or adapting the flow to suit your tone. It’s about having go-to structures to make content easier to write, and easier to read.

You’re not writing a novel; you’re trying to get someone to stop scrolling, think “ooh that’s for me”, and take action.

Final Thought from Your Friendly Freelance Writers in Yorkshire

If you’re sat there thinking “This all sounds great, but I still haven’t got the time (or headspace) to write these bloody things…”, that’s where we come in.

We’re Andy and Debs, Yorkshire copywriters and freelance writers who love crafting simple, effective words that work on social media. Whether you want help writing your posts, refreshing your content, or just need someone to take it off your plate completely … we’re here, and we’re happy to help.

Let’s have a proper chat and get your words working harder.

Need help with social media content?

Drop us a message and tell us what you’re struggling with … we’ll brew up some ideas, no pressure.