Threads lets you create a poll with up to four options in a single post. You can ask a question, gather opinions from your followers, and see real-time results. The poll feature is built directly into the compose window on both mobile and desktop. This article explains how to create a poll step by step and covers common setup issues.
Key Takeaways: Creating a Poll on Threads
- Compose window > Poll icon: Tap the bar chart icon to add a poll to your post.
- Up to four options: You can add two, three, or four answer choices for your poll.
- Poll duration: Set the poll to run for 24 hours or 7 days before results are finalized.
Overview of the Threads Poll Feature
The poll feature in Threads is a native option inside the post composer. You do not need any third-party app or external tool. After you add a poll, your followers can tap one option to vote. The poll results update in real time, and you can see how many people voted for each choice. The poll creator can view the vote counts at any time during the poll period.
To use the poll feature, you need a Threads account that is linked to an Instagram profile. The feature is available on the Threads mobile app for iOS and Android, as well as on the web version at threads.net. There are no special permissions or follower count requirements. Any user can create a poll.
What the Poll Includes
A Threads poll consists of a question text that you write in the main post body, followed by two to four option buttons. Each option can be up to 40 characters long. The poll appears as an interactive card below your text. Voters see a percentage bar for each option after they cast their vote. The poll creator can also see the total number of votes.
Prerequisites
Before creating a poll, confirm the following:
- You are logged into your Threads account.
- Your Threads app is updated to the latest version. Polls require Threads version 1.2 or later on mobile.
- You have a stable internet connection.
Steps to Create a Poll on Threads
Follow these steps to create a poll with multiple options on Threads. The steps are the same on the mobile app and the web version.
- Tap the compose button
On the mobile app, tap the plus icon at the bottom center of the screen. On the web, click the text box that says “What’s happening?” at the top of your feed. - Write your question or topic
Type the question you want to ask. This text will appear above the poll options. For example, “Which color should we use for the new logo?” - Tap the poll icon
Look for the bar chart icon in the toolbar below the text box. On mobile, it is the third icon from the left. On web, it is a small bar chart icon next to the media attachment button. Tap or click it. - Enter your poll options
A poll card appears with two option fields already visible. Type the first option in the “Option 1” field and the second option in the “Option 2” field. Each option can be up to 40 characters. - Add a third or fourth option
To add a third option, tap “Add option” below the second field. Repeat to add a fourth option. You cannot add more than four options. - Set the poll duration
Tap the clock icon next to the poll card. Choose either “24 hours” or “7 days”. The poll will automatically close after the selected time. - Post your poll
Tap the Post button in the upper right corner. Your poll will appear in your followers’ feeds immediately.
Common Mistakes, Limitations, and Things to Avoid
Poll Options Are Too Long
Each option is limited to 40 characters. If you type more than 40 characters, the text will be cut off. Keep your options short and clear. Use abbreviations if needed.
You Cannot Edit a Poll After Posting
Once you post a poll, you cannot change the question, options, or duration. You also cannot add or remove options. If you make a mistake, you must delete the post and create a new poll from scratch.
Polls Are Not Available in Replies or Quote Posts
You can only add a poll to a new top-level post. You cannot add a poll to a reply, a quote post, or a repost. If you need a poll in a reply, create a separate post and link to it.
Polls Do Not Support Images or Videos
When you add a poll to a post, you cannot attach images, videos, or GIFs. The poll card replaces the media attachment area. If you want to include media, post it separately and then create a poll in another post.
Voting Is Anonymous to Other Users
When you vote in a poll, your username is not shown to other users. Only the poll creator can see the individual votes. The public sees only the percentage breakdown.
Threads Polls vs Instagram Polls: Key Differences
| Item | Threads Poll | Instagram Poll |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum options | 4 | 2 |
| Character limit per option | 40 characters | 25 characters |
| Duration choices | 24 hours or 7 days | 24 hours only |
| Post type | Text post with poll card | Story with poll sticker |
| Image or video support | No | Yes |
| Vote visibility | Creator sees votes, public sees percentages | Creator sees votes, public sees percentages |
Threads polls offer more flexibility with up to four options and a longer duration. Instagram polls are limited to two options and 24 hours. If you need more than two choices, Threads is the better platform. If you need to combine a poll with a photo or video, Instagram Stories is the right choice.
You now know how to create a poll on Threads with up to four options. Try using the poll feature to gather feedback on product features, content ideas, or event preferences. For more engagement, post the poll during peak hours when your audience is most active. You can also quote your own poll post to remind followers to vote before the deadline.