Have you ever wondered how Pinterest decides which pins to show to which users? Pinterest categories play a big role in helping the platform organize content and connect people with the right pins.
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How Pinterest Categories Affect Your Reach
Pinterest categories are broad topic areas that group similar content together. Examples include Food and Drink, Home Decor, Travel, Fashion, and DIY Crafts.
While you can no longer assign a category to each board, Pinterest still uses them behind the scenes. They appear when selecting interests or keywords for Pinterest Ads and on the Ideas page to help surface relevant content.
Tips for Using Categories Strategically
Categories are one of many signals Pinterest uses to recommend your content. By grouping similar ideas together, Pinterest can suggest your pins to users who are likely to engage.
Here are a few tips for using Pinterest categories to grow your account, even if you can’t choose them from a dropdown list anymore:
- Focus on creating boards and pins that clearly fit ONE topic or niche at a time
- Use descriptive titles and keyword-rich descriptions so Pinterest can categorize your content accurately
- Consider categories when running ads or targeting interests
- Stick to a few key topics for your account to build authority in those areas
Even without manually assigning categories, Pinterest still uses them behind the scenes to connect your pins with the right audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still assign categories to my boards?
No. Pinterest removed that option, but categories are still used behind the scenes.
Where do Pinterest categories show up now?
They appear in areas like Pinterest Ads when choosing interests or keywords and on the Ideas page for surfacing content.
Do categories affect organic reach?
Yes. Pinterest uses them along with keywords and engagement signals to recommend your pins.
How can I make sure my pins are in the right category?
Use clear board titles, detailed descriptions, and relevant keywords. This helps Pinterest understand your content and connect it to the right audience.
If you’d like help growing your Pinterest account, learn more about hiring me for Pinterest management.
Prefer to DIY your marketing? Check out my Pinterest course to grow your Pinterest account!
