Comment-to-DM automation sends a private message when someone comments a matching keyword on your Instagram post or Reel. You can set it up without ManyChat using SwayCue Free. Choose a post, set a word such as GUIDE, and add the requested link to your DM.
What is free, and what do you need?
These scripts are free to read and copy without signing up. Running them automatically requires a SwayCue account and a connected Instagram professional account. Free includes 1 profile, 1 active automation, 20 posts, 50 agent actions, and 100 DMs per month. No credit card required. See current plan limits.
Set up your first keyword-triggered DM
- Connect the Instagram Business or Creator account that owns the post.
- Open Campaigns, create a campaign and select a specific post or Reel.
- Choose a specific word or words and enter GUIDE, PLAN or another keyword from your caption.
- Add a short private message and use Add A Link for the resource URL. An opening DM and public comment reply are optional.
- Review the preview, then save and activate. Use another account to leave a test comment and check DMs, message requests and the delivered link.
For a downloadable guide, follow the free PDF link delivery walkthrough. To start with ready-written copy, use the free comment-to-DM templates or fitness coach scripts.
When a private reply helps
A private reply keeps the requested link in the same conversation as the enquiry. A bio link remains useful for general navigation; choose the route that fits the resource and your audience.
- Resource delivery: Send the specific guide or product page requested in the comment.
- Clear context: Match the caption, keyword and message so the recipient recognises what they asked for.
- Separate measurement: Track successful delivery, link clicks and actual signups separately. Comments alone do not establish sales.
The 3 Pillars of a High-Converting Comment-to-DM Campaign
1. The 1-Word Capitalized Keyword Trigger
Keep your trigger word simple. Asking viewers to comment phrases like “send me the free guide please” leads to typos and lower engagement. Use punchy words like CODE, GUIDE, VIP, or DEAL.
2. The Automated Follow Gate
A follow requirement is optional. It adds a prompt and confirmation step before the resource link. Explain that condition in your caption and test the whole flow; it does not guarantee a particular increase in followers.
3. A message that delivers the promise
Name the resource, include the correct link and keep any next step relevant to the request. Start with delivery before adding more conversation steps. Check your allowance and delivery log when you expand the campaign.
Three example campaign prompts for SwayCue
Replace the resource links and dates with your own details. Review the agent's proposed settings before confirming a campaign:
“Prepare a campaign for my selected Reel. When someone comments GUIDE, send my Creator Guide link [PDF_LINK]. Show me the keyword and message before activating it.”
“Schedule Reel for Wednesday at 6 PM. Send my VIP masterclass registration link to anyone who comments LIVE. Check they follow me first.”
“Schedule Reel tomorrow at 12 PM. Send 20% discount code SAVE20 to anyone commenting DISCOUNT. Clarify that the code expires in 48 hours.”
Try Our Free AI Campaign Prompt Generator
Customize your keyword, offer, and follow gate settings with our interactive tool.
Open Free Prompt BuilderFrequently Asked Questions
Yes. You can use SwayCue Free to create one active comment-to-DM automation on one Instagram profile, with 100 DMs per month. Choose the post, set the keyword, add your message and link, then review and activate the campaign. An Instagram professional account is required.
No. The follow requirement is optional and adds a step before resource delivery. If you use it, explain it in the caption and test the button and delivery flow. Instagram messaging restrictions and account permissions still apply.
Choose a short word that matches the resource, such as GUIDE, PLAN or PRICE. Use the same word in the caption and campaign, and test the expected matching behaviour. There is no single keyword that guarantees the best conversion rate for every audience.