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Jul 14, 2024

Using RT (Retweet) on Twitter

Understand the use of 'RT' or retweet on Twitter, evolution from manual typing 'RT' to native retweet button feature.

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Have you ever wondered how some tweets gain extensive eminence in no time? The secret lies in the power of retweeting, or RT, on Twitter. The rudimentary attribute permits users to share content from others with their followers, expanding the reach of the original tweet by retweeting. In the early days of Twitter, users had to manually type "RT" before the content they wanted to share. This method required copying and pasting the tweet and then adding "RT" at the start.

In this guide, we will tell you about using RT Tweet. Ready to dive in?

Introduction to RT (Retweet) on Twitter

Want to know how you can boost your Twitter posts and get noticed? Let’s dive into the power of the RT Tweet or Retweet and why it’s a groundbreaker for your social media strategy.

Definition and Purpose of Retweeting (RT) on Twitter

Illustration of Retweeting On Twitter, Source: lifewire.com

A retweet is simply when you share someone else's tweet with your followers. Think of it as forwarding an email or sharing a post on Facebook. By retweeting, you’re endorsing content, disseminating information, and engaging with your community. It’s a robust way to elevate visibility, support others, and add value to your timeline. When you retweet, you’re telling your followers, “Hey, this is worth reading!”

Want to elevate your Twitter reach? Read our pragmatic guide on Twitter Marketing Tools to Increase Your Reach

Understanding Twitter Jargon: RT vs. Repost

Want to know the distinction between manually typing 'RT' and using the native retweet attribute on Twitter? Let's dive in and disentangle this vocabulary.

Manual 'RT' vs. Native Retweet: Key Differences

Manual RT vs Native Retweet Comparison

Manual RT vs Native Retweet Comparison

Aspect Manual ‘RT’ Native Retweet
Definition Manually copying and pasting an RT tweet with "RT" Using Twitter's built-in retweet attribute
Visibility Appears as a new RT tweet from the retweeter Appears as the original RT tweet in the retweeter's feed
Character Limit Subject to Twitter's character limit Not subject to the character limit
Engagement Metrics Likes and replies go to the retweeter's RT tweet Likes and feedback go to the original tweet
Attribution Must manually feature the original author Automatically attributes the original author
Editing Capability Can add comments or edit the text Cannot edit the original tweet; you can only add a comment with 'Quote Tweet'
Notification to Original Author The original author may not receive a notification The original author is notified of the retweet

Evolution of Retweets to Reposts Post Elon Musk's Acquisition

Elon Musk’s acquisition of Twitter has developed the RT tweet button. In an attempt to sleek and overhaul the platform, Musk introduced the term "Repost." While users continue to share another user's tweet with their followers—maintaining the function—affiliating Twitter with a broader social media dialect is the aim of the new term. 

Difference Between RT, Repost, and Quote Retweet (QRT)

Let’s take a look at the distinction in the form of a table:- 

RT Tweet vs Repost vs Quote Retweet Comparison

RT Tweet vs Repost vs Quote Retweet Comparison

Attribute RT Tweet Repost Quote Retweet (RT)
Definition Shares someone else's tweet as it is Shares a post again on the same platform Share a tweet with your comment added
Visibility Visible to your followers Visible to your followers Visible to your followers with auxiliary context
Originality No alteration to authentic content No alteration to authentic content Add your own thoughts and context
Interaction Simple sharing Simple sharing Adds personal engagement
Attribution Features initial author involuntarily Features original author automatically Features original author and adds your handle
Usage Expands the original message Similar to Retweet, platform-specific term Engages with the original content
Instance RT @user: Original tweet content Repost @user: Original post content @user: Original tweet content + "Your comment"

Now, you're equipped to go through Twitter's jargon like a pro. 

For more insights on social media strategies, check out our detailed article on optimizing your Twitter engagement. Read our article on A Comprehensive Guide to Discovering Who Follows Whom on Twitter

How to Retweet on Twitter

Now that you have understood the Twitter Jargon, let’s learn how to retweet on Mobile App and Twitter.com:

How to Retweet on Mobile App and Twitter.com

Ready to master retweeting on Twitter? Let’s dive in:

On the Mobile App:

  1. Open the Twitter app on your mobile.
Twitter App on Mobile, Source: cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net
  1. Find the tweet you want to share.
Tweet on Twitter Mobile App, Source: static1.howtogeekimages.com
  1. Tap the retweet icon (the two arrows forming a square).
RT Tweet Sharing Icon on Twitter Mobile App, Source: static-prod.adweek.com/wp-content
  1. Choose either "Retweet" or "Quote Tweet."
Retweet and Quote Tweet on Twitter Mobile App, Source: static1.pocketlintimages.com
  1. Hit "Retweet" to share directly or "Quote Tweet" to add your thoughts.
Retweet Directly on Twitter Mobile App, Source: static1.pocketlintimages.com

On Twitter.com:

  1. Log in to your Twitter account.
Twitter Login on Website, Source: media.licdn.com
  1. Scroll through your feed to find the tweet.
Twitter Feed on Website Page, Source: static.dezeen.com
  1. Click the retweet icon beneath the tweet.
Retweet Icon on Twitter Website, Source: lifewire.com
  1. Select either "Retweet" or "Quote Tweet."
Retweet or Quote Tweet on Website, Source: lifewire.com
  1. Click "Retweet" to share as is or "Quote Tweet" to add a comment.

Retweeting Options: Direct Share or Add Comments

When you retweet, you have two options:

  • Direct Share (Retweet): This simply shares the original tweet with your followers.
  • Add Comments (Quote Tweet): This permits you to add your comments or thoughts above the original tweet.

Impact of Account Settings on the Ability to Retweet

Your account settings can impact your ability to retweet. Only your followers can retweet your content if you safeguard your tweets. Public accounts permit anyone to retweet your tweets.

Special Considerations for Retweeting from Protected Accounts

You won’t be able to retweet it unless you're a follower if you come across a tweet from a safeguarded account. Even then, the retweet will only be visible to mutual followers. Always respect the privacy of safeguarded accounts!

Now, go ahead and start retweeting like a pro! 🚀

Ready to learn about Twitter Spaces? Don't miss our comprehensive guide on maximizing your reach and engagement in Twitter 101: A Beginner’s Guide To Using Twitter Spaces.

Advanced Retweeting Techniques

Let’s now take a look at the advanced retweeting techniques:

Old-School Method: Copy, Paste, and Manually Add 'RT'

Remember the superior way to retweet? Simply copy the tweet you love, paste it into your new tweet, and add "RT" before the original author's handle. This technique adds a personal touch and gives you control over how the retweet appears. 

Pro Tip: Use this technique to add your commentary or emphasis.

Retweeting with Additional Media: GIFs, Videos, and Photos

Improve your retweets by including additional media like GIFs, videos, or photos. Visual components grab more engrossment and accelerate engagement. Next time you retweet, contemplate adding a pertinent GIF or a fast video response. This not only makes your retweet more proactive but also more alluring to your followers.

Using Third-Party Tools like TweetDeck for Managing Retweets

A hassle can emerge when managing multiple retweets. That's where tools like TweetDeck come in handy. You can effectively schedule, monitor, and manage your retweets using TweetDeck. It also allows you to keep track of trending topics, organize your retweets, and ensure you stay active on Twitter without being glued to your screen all day. 

Bonus: TweetDeck offers advanced search features to help you find content worth retweeting.

Clasp these expanded retweeting methods to make your Twitter presence more dynamic and engaging!

Managing Retweets

So, you've been retweeting like a pro, but now it's time to clean up your Twitter feed. Whether you're rethinking your retweet choices or simply clearing out, managing your retweets (RT tweets) doesn't have to be a hassle. Let's examine the necessities:

How to Undo a Retweet or Repost

Undoing a retweet can be easy. Just follow these simple steps:

  1. Find the Retweet: Find the retweet you want to undo in your timeline.
Retweet On Twitter, Source: i0.wp.com
  1. Click the Retweet Icon: Tap or click on the retweet icon (the two arrows forming a square).
Click on the Retweet Icon on Twitter, Source: qph.cf2.quoracdn.net
  1. Confirm the Undo: The option to 'Undo Retweet' will pop up. Click it, and voila, you have removed the retweet!
Undoing a Retweet, Source: circleboom.com

It's that simple. No stress, no confusion.

Deleting Retweets Using Advanced Search

Sometimes, you might want to get a bit more choosy. Advanced search on Twitter is your best buddy here:

  1. Go to Twitter’s Advanced Search: Go to the advanced search page (you can find it in Twitter’s search options).
Visiting the Twitter Advanced Search, Source: media.sproutsocial.com
  1. Enter Your Username: In the 'From these accounts' field, type your username.
From These Accounts Section, Source: media.sproutsocial.com
  1. Add Keywords: In the 'All of these words' field, type "RT".
All Of These Words Section, Source: media.sproutsocial.com
  1. Search and Find: Hit search and browse through the results.
Browsing Tweet Records, Source: media.sproutsocial.com
  1. Delete the Retweets: For each retweet you want to delete, click on the tweet and use the retweet button to undo it.
Selecting Retweets to Delete, Source: i0.wp.com

This technique lets you determine and delete those retweets that no longer spark joy.

Conclusion 

Comprehending the complexities of retweeting on Twitter can substantially improve your social media experience. From the factual expansion of the “RT” Tweet to the modern functionalities of the retweet button, you can intensify your voice and connect with a wider audience by mastering this attribute. Whether you’re sharing directly, adding commentary, or using expanded tools, retweeting remains a robust way to engage with the Twitter community. So, next time you come across an intriguing tweet, don't hesitate to hit that retweet button and share it with the world!

Elevate Your Twitter Presence Today! Book a Demo at Blaze today and Master the Art of Retweets!

Frequently Asked Questions

Still curious about mastering Twitter? Here are some common questions answered to help elevate your social media strategy: 

Q1: How do you retweet with RT?

A: To retweet with "RT," copy the tweet's text, compose a new tweet starting with "RT @username:" (replacing "username" with the original poster's handle), paste the copied text, and post it.

Q2: Is it better to reply or retweet on Twitter?

A: Choosing between replying and retweeting on Twitter relies on your aims. Responding nurtures personal communication and builds relationships. Retweeting expands the original message's reach and shares valuable content with your followers. Select based on whether you aim for engagement or enhancement.

Q: What is the benefit of Retweeting?

A: Your message gets dilated by retweeting, accelerating its reach and visibility to a wider audience. It also helps you engage with your followers and join trending conversations.

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