As a developer, you have valuable knowledge to share. But LinkedIn’s text-based posts aren’t great for code. The formatting is limited, syntax highlighting is non-existent, and long code blocks just look like walls of text.
That’s where carousels come in. They let you present code beautifully, with proper syntax highlighting, step-by-step explanations, and visual appeal that stops the scroll.
Why Carousels Work for Technical Content
- Syntax Highlighting — Code is actually readable with proper colors
- Controlled Pacing — Break down complex concepts slide by slide
- Visual Context — Add explanations alongside code
- Higher Engagement — Carousels get 1.6x more reach and achieve 24.42% engagement rates (vs 6.67% for text posts)
- Mobile-Optimized — 51% of LinkedIn users are on mobile; carousels are easier to navigate than long code blocks
What Makes a Great Code Carousel
Start With the Problem
Don’t jump straight into code. Your first slide should explain what problem you’re solving or what concept you’re teaching. Give people context.
Example first slide: “Ever wondered how React’s useState actually works under the hood? Let me show you in 8 slides.”
Keep Code Snippets Focused
Don’t show entire files. Highlight the specific lines that matter. Use comments or arrows to draw attention to key parts.
// ❌ Too much code
function Component() {
const [count, setCount] = useState(0);
const [name, setName] = useState('');
const [items, setItems] = useState([]);
// ... 50 more lines
}
// ✅ Focused on the concept
const [count, setCount] = useState(0);
// ↑ current value ↑ updater function
Explain Before and After
For each code snippet, have a slide before it explaining what you’re about to show, and optionally a slide after explaining what happened.
The rhythm:
- Context slide → “Here’s how we handle…”
- Code slide → The actual implementation
- Explanation slide → “Notice how we…”
Use the Right Font Size
With over half of LinkedIn users on mobile, code readability is critical. If people have to squint, they’ll swipe away. Test your carousel on a phone before posting.
Recommended: 16-18px minimum for code on 1:1 carousels. Larger is always better. Vertical format carousels outperform square by 20% and horizontal by 35%.
Add Your Branding
Include your name or handle on each slide. When people save and share your carousel (and they will), your name travels with it.
Popular Code Carousel Formats
- Tutorial Style — Step-by-step guide to implementing something (highest saves)
- Before/After — Show bad code vs. good code (drives discussion in comments)
- Tips Collection — “5 JavaScript tricks you might not know” (great for reach)
- Concept Explainer — Break down a complex topic visually (builds authority)
- Comparison — Library A vs Library B (sparks debate and engagement)
Sweet spot: 12-13 slides with 25-50 words per slide for optimal engagement.
Languages That Shine in Carousels
Some languages are particularly well-suited for carousel content:
- JavaScript / TypeScript — Universal appeal, lots of developers
- Python — Clean syntax, great for beginners
- React / JSX — Component-based code is visual
- SQL — Query explanations work great
- CSS — Visual results are satisfying
Code Carousel Checklist
Before you post, make sure you can answer “yes” to these:
- Is the first slide a hook, not code?
- Is each code snippet focused on one concept?
- Is the font large enough for mobile?
- Did you explain the “why” not just the “what”?
- Is your branding visible?
- Does the last slide have a CTA?
Start Creating
Technical content on LinkedIn has massive potential. With 51% of users on mobile and carousel posts achieving 3.6x higher engagement than text posts, developers who master this format stand out.
The developers who consistently share valuable code content build incredible personal brands and attract opportunities. The data is clear: carousels work. Now it’s your turn to leverage them.
Ready to create your own carousels?
Put these ideas into practice with Carouselr. Create professional LinkedIn carousels in minutes.