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== Hashtag ==

A hashtag is a type of metadata tag used on social networks such as Twitter and other microblogging services, allowing users to apply dynamic, user-generated tagging which makes it possible for others to easily find messages with a specific theme or content. A hashtag is created by placing the number sign or pound sign (#) in front of a word or unspaced phrase. When a hashtag is used, it becomes a hyperlink that leads to a page displaying all messages that include the same hashtag.

History

The use of the hashtag was first proposed by Chris Messina in a tweet in 2007. Messina suggested using the pound sign to group related tweets together. The idea was initially met with skepticism, but it quickly gained popularity and became a standard feature on Twitter. Since then, hashtags have been adopted by other social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Functionality

Hashtags serve several purposes on social media platforms:

• **Categorization**: They help categorize content, making it easier for users to find posts related to specific topics.
• **Trending Topics**: Hashtags can indicate trending topics, as the frequency of a hashtag's use can signal its popularity.
• **Campaigns and Events**: They are often used in marketing campaigns and events to create a unified message and increase visibility.

Usage

To create a hashtag, users simply place the # symbol in front of a word or phrase without spaces. For example, #SocialMedia or #WorldCup. Hashtags are not case-sensitive, but using capital letters for each word in a phrase (known as camel case) can improve readability, such as #ThrowbackThursday.

Popular Hashtags

Some of the most popular hashtags include:

• #TBT (Throwback Thursday)
• #OOTD (Outfit of the Day)
• #FollowFriday
• #NoFilter

Criticism

While hashtags are widely used, they have also faced criticism. Some users find them to be overused or misused, leading to cluttered and less meaningful content. Additionally, the use of hashtags for astroturfing or spamming can undermine their effectiveness.

Related Pages

• Twitter
• Instagram
• Facebook
• Microblogging
• Metadata
• Social media

See Also

• List of social networking websites
• Internet meme
• Online community
• Social media marketing