Build your first automation
A step-by-step walkthrough of the automation builder, using a freebie funnel as the example.
2 min read · Updated October 2026
This walkthrough builds the most common funnel: a viewer comments a word on a Reel and gets your freebie in their DMs.
Before you start
- Instagram is connected.
- You have an item to send. A free vault item works best for the first one. Copy its link from the item page.
- You know which Reel it is for (or you will set it up before posting).
WhereDashboardManage Auto DMsNew automation
- 1
Name it
Use something you will recognise later, such as "Free preset: summer Reel".
- 2
1. When someone…
Pick Post or reel comments. (Other options: Direct messages, Story replies.)
- 3
2. On which post?
Choose Specific posts and pick the Reel, Any post, or Next post (it locks onto the first post you publish after saving, so set it up before you post).
- 4
3. And their comment has…
Add keywords such as GUIDE, PRESET or FREE. Press Enter after each. Choose Contains (matches the whole word) or Exact match. Use Test it to type a sample comment and see if it would trigger.
- 5
4. Reply to the comment publicly (optional)
Add one to five variations such as "Sent you a DM" or "Check your DMs." One is picked at random so the comments look natural.
- 6
5. Send them a DM
Turn on Opening message, optionally Ask to follow first, then write Your message and attach up to three link buttons. You can pick an item with Add from your Sygil.
- 7
Save and go live
Check the phone preview on the right, then save. Make sure the automation is Live.
Example settings
| Setting | Value |
|---|---|
| Trigger | Post or reel comments |
| Post | Specific posts, then your Reel |
| Keywords | PRESET, PRESETS |
| Match | Contains |
| Public reply | On: "Sent you a DM", "Check your DMs", "Done, check your inbox" |
| Opening message | On. "Hey {username}! Tap below and I'll send your free preset." Button: "Send me the link" |
| Ask to follow first | On. "Follow me first, then tap below." Button: "I'm following" |
| Your message | "Here's your free preset, enjoy!" with one link button: "Get it free" to your vault item |
| Send once per person | On |
Test it before you post
- Use the keyword tester inside the builder with a few sample comments.
- Comment the keyword on your own Reel from a second account.
- Open the DM from that account. Does the button open the right item?
- Check Activity in Manage Auto DMs: you should see the DM as Sent.
Edit, pause, duplicate, delete
- Live / Paused: toggle an automation off to stop it without deleting.
- Duplicate: copies an automation as a paused draft named "(copy)" so you can change the post and keyword.
- Edit any time. Delete removes it permanently.
- You can have up to 100 automations.