12 Rules for Winning at Snapchat Like a Boss—a Teen Boss
Snapchat---everybody's doing it. It's just that you have no idea what, exactly, you're doing. Here's how to win at Snapchat like a teen.

Snapchat—everybody’s doing it. It’s just that you have no idea what, exactly, you’re doing. Here’s how to win at Snapchat like a teen.
01Don't Overpost
Post to your story, but not too much. The new Snapchat update is a data suck, and the autoplay is annoying if you post too many snaps.
02Take It Slow
If you’re starting out, follow just a few people first so you don’t feel overwhelmed.
03Selfie With Weird Abandon
Snap as many selfies as possible, the uglier and weirder the better. Instagram-like posed snaps are stupid.
04Try All the Lenses
Experiment with all the lenses—don’t just use the puppy dog, which is the most flattering, cutesy, and #basic.
05Maintain Those Streaks
Don’t drop a Snapchat streak, especially one that’s taken real dedication, like anything longer than two weeks.
06When in Doubt, LOL
The app won’t keep your conversation, so just type “LOL” in response to a snap if you can’t remember what you said in your last message. Chances are they don’t either.
07Be the Most Ridiculous
If you’re going to snap from the one party or concert that everyone is attending make yours stand out. Draw something ridiculous or throw a lens out there. Yours should be the least eye-roll-inducing of the stack.
08No Spoilers
Don’t snap TV spoilers!
09Don't Cross-Post
With Instagram copying certain Snapchat capabilities (“stories” auto playing and expiring in 24 hours), don’t post the same content on IG, Snapchat, and also send it as a private message. It’s 
10Minimize Memories
With Snapchat copying certain Instagram capabilities (adding saved content to stories), don’t snap too many “memories.” Snapchat’s immediacy and silliness is what makes it awesome.
11Don't Be a Stalker
Snapchat logs everyone who’s viewed a snap so don’t accidentally watch someone you’re avoiding. Say, your boss when you called in sick or a crush who already thinks you’re stalking them.
12Troll Deep
Do watch all the snaps and send messages for each if you’re trolling someone who’s ODR’ing you (open; don’t reply). It’s hilarious.
Comments
Back to topTopicsmagazine-24.09
The Best Wireless Chargers to Refuel Your Phone (or Watch)
Stop fumbling for cables in the dark. These WIRED-tested stands and pads will take the hassle out of refueling your phone, wireless earbuds, and watch.
Simon Hill
Enclayve Is a Drab Black Box for Your Private Group Chats
I put my family on a private social network, and all I got was this lousy group chat. At least it’s secure.
Boone Ashworth
The Best Prepaid Phone Plans to Slash Your Monthly Bill
Forget the pricey, postpaid cell plans and two-year contracts. Save with one of these WIRED-tested options from US Mobile, Boost, and Google Fi.
Matthew S. Smith
Quell the Heat With Our Favorite Window Air Conditioners
These are the AC units we’ve trusted to cool our homes for months, if not years.
Matthew Korfhage
The Best Portable Chargers and Power Banks for All Your Devices
Keep your phone, laptop, handheld gaming console, and other electronics running with these travel-friendly power banks.
Simon Hill
The Best Smart Rings for Tracking Your Health in 2026
A svelte smart ring can track important activity, sleep, and health metrics. Plus—unlike most smartwatches—it doesn’t need to be charged every day.
Boutayna Chokrane
After Testing Dozens, These Are the Outdoor Security Cameras I Recommend
These weatherproof outdoor security cams keep a watchful eye on your property while you get on with life. Our list includes battery-powered cameras that need no subscription.
Simon Hill
The Best Duffel Bags for Commuters and Chronic Overpackers
Need to schlep some stuff? These field-tested duffels can handle your baggage.
Louryn Strampe
Vertu Is Back With a Folding Phone Powered by—Surprise—an AI Agent
The beleaguered luxury phone maker is pushing the AlphaFold, which has decent specs and comes with Vertu’s new Hermes Agent on board, to wealthy would-be buyers.
Julian Chokkattu
All the Best Vacuum Cleaners We’ve Ever Tried
Looking for all our top recommended vacuums? Here are our favorites in every style we’ve tested, from stick vacs to robot vacuums.
Nena Farrell
The Best Meal Kits of 2026, Tested by a Former Restaurant Critic
Here are the best meal kits in 2026, including Martha Stewart’s delivery box, a GLP-1–supportive plan, and a budget-friendly option.
Matthew Korfhage
The Zuckerbergs Are Hiring a Lifeguard but Calling It a ‘Beach Water Person’
The job, which is associated with the Zuckerberg family office, is located in Kauai, Hawaii, where the Meta CEO owns a massive compound.
Caroline Haskins