About the Meta (Facebook & Instagram) Ad Preview
Meta ads put three text fields to work: primary text above the creative, a headline below it and a short description. In the feed, primary text is typically cut after about 125 characters with a See more link, headlines are best kept to roughly 40 characters and descriptions to about 30. This Facebook ad preview shows your copy in a feed-style mockup and warns when a field passes those recommended lengths.
The opening line of primary text does most of the work, because many people never tap See more. Use the preview to make sure the hook, offer and call to action are visible. Actual display varies by placement and device, so treat this as a drafting aid. Your copy is processed in your browser only.
How to use it
- Enter the page name and the primary text for the ad.
- Add a headline and description.
- Check the preview and any length warnings.
- Shorten copy so the key message appears before the cut-off.
Frequently asked questions
How long can Facebook ad primary text be?
Meta allows longer primary text, but in most feed placements only around the first 125 characters show before it is truncated with See more. Put the most important message in that opening part. Longer copy can still work, but the hook and offer should appear before the cut-off so people who never expand it still get the point.
Is the preview identical to Meta Ads Manager?
No. It is a close mockup of a feed ad designed for fast copywriting. Ads Manager shows official previews for each placement, such as Stories, Reels and right column, which can crop text and media differently. Do a final check there before publishing.
Does Meta still limit text on ad images?
Meta dropped the old 20% image text rule, but it still suggests keeping text on images light, as images with less text often perform better. This tool previews the text fields, not text inside your image. Review your creative in Ads Manager to see how it appears in each placement.