What is a 'hashtag' used for in social media?

A hashtag, which uses a hash symbol (#) as a prefix, serves as a labeling system on social media platforms that helps categorize content and make it easily discoverable. When users add hashtags to their posts, they enable others to search for specific topics or themes. This tagging system enhances engagement by connecting posts related to similar subjects, facilitating conversations and interactions among users interested in those topics.

While it’s true that hashtags can help identify trending topics, which is captured in another option, the defining characteristic of a hashtag is indeed its format: the use of the hash symbol. This formatting is what sets hashtags apart as a unique social media tool, allowing content to be grouped and searched efficiently. In this way, hashtags play a critical role in content discovery, community building, and enhancing the visibility of posts within the vast landscape of social media.