Sked's Updated Instagram Grid Planner

February 4, 2025
By
Jen McKinnon

Here's the kicker: Instagram’s grid preview ratio isn’t 1:1 or even 4:5—it's actually 3:4. Yep, the platform displays your posts differently on profiles than anywhere else, and it won't let you upload a post in that grid-friendly size. So, how do you make sure your carefully crafted content doesn’t get ruined?

That’s where Sked Social comes in.

The Instagram Grid Shift: What You Need to Know

Previously, Instagram's grid showed posts in a neat 1:1 square format. It was straightforward to design around—upload a post at 1080x1080px, and that was exactly what appeared in your grid. Simple. But Instagram switched things up.

Now, the grid shows posts in a 3:4 ratio, yet Instagram requires uploads to be in 4:5 for your grid layout or other supported ratios. That means if you post a 1080x1350px image (the optimal 4:5 size for feed scrolling), Instagram chops off part of the top and bottom in your profile grid view. The result? Cropped faces, missing text, or awkward compositions you never intended.

If you’ve been frustrated trying to strike a balance between these competing ratios, you're not alone. We get it, and we’ve got your back.

Plan Ahead with Sked's Instagram Grid Planner

To solve the post-cropping nightmare, we've built an Instagram Grid Planner right into Sked Social’s scheduling tool. It's designed to help you visualize how your posts will look on your profile before they go live.

Here’s how it works:

  • Drag and Preview: When you upload and schedule your post, Sked lets you preview the exact profile grid view. You’ll see the top and bottom edges that Instagram will crop out.
  • Adjust with Confidence: By knowing how your post will appear on the grid, you can tweak your design or layout to keep the focus on what matters most.
  • Seamless Aesthetic: Whether you’re planning a cohesive grid with recurring themes, colors, or layouts, the Grid Planner helps you align each post perfectly.

Why Does This Matter?

For social media managers, influencers, and brand marketers, Instagram grids are prime real estate. Your profile is often a potential follower’s first impression of your account. If your grid looks messy or disjointed because of inconsistent cropping, you could lose engagement—or worse, miss out on new followers entirely.

With Sked’s Grid Planner, you can design posts with precision, keeping your visual strategy intact.

Ready to Try It?

Sked Social’s Instagram Grid Planner is now available as part of our scheduling tool. Whether you're managing multiple accounts or perfecting your personal brand, this feature gives you control over your grid like never before.

No more surprises. No more awkward crops. Just a beautifully planned feed that converts.

Not a Sked user yet? Sign up for a free trial and start planning your perfect Instagram profile today.Stay ahead of Instagram’s ever-changing landscape with Sked Social—where smart social media management tools meet creative control.

Struggling to get your Instagram designs right for the new rectangular grid?

Download our FREE transparent PNG overlays for Instagram to make navigating safe zones a breeze.

Get early access to Sked Idea Planner

Your new all-in-one workspace where brainstorms actually turn into content. Capture ideas when they hit, work with your team, fill the gaps in your calendar, and let AI handle the heavy lifting—from concept to publish. Get early access today.

Get Early Access!

Contents

What to read next

Instagram

8-Step Guide to Audit your Instagram Bio in 2026

December 23, 2025

Unlock the full potential of your Instagram profile in 2026 with this expert 8-step bio audit guide. Discover actionable tips, the latest best practices, and proven strategies to optimize your Instagram bio for maximum impact, engagement, and discoverability.

Instagram

The 9 Best Instagram Automation Tools [2026]

December 22, 2025

Explore the 9 best Instagram automation tools for 2026. Compare features, discover actionable tips, and see why Sked Social is the top choice for Instagram automation, scheduling, and analytics.

Fill your content calendar—and your inspiration board.