I have to be honest and note this is the first I have heard of “the algorithm” but yes it aligns quite a bit with what I am thinking. Will have to look further into it but I don’t expect that I would disagree with what you note. 
November 21, 2023
ChatGPT 3.5
You
What is Twitter “the algorithm”?
ChatGPT
Twitter’s algorithm refers to the complex set of mathematical rules and processes that the social media platform uses to determine what content is shown to users in their timelines and feeds. This algorithm is designed to curate and personalize the content that users see based on their interests, engagement history, and other factors. Twitter’s algorithm has evolved over the years, but it generally aims to show users the most relevant and engaging tweets while promoting user engagement and retention on the platform.
Key components and factors that may influence Twitter’s algorithm include:
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Relevance: The algorithm considers the relevance of a tweet to a user’s interests and preferences. It takes into account the accounts a user follows, the content they engage with (likes, retweets, replies), and the keywords and hashtags they use in their tweets.
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Engagement: Tweets that receive more likes, retweets, replies, and shares are more likely to be promoted by the algorithm. Higher engagement indicates that a tweet is resonating with users and is considered more valuable.
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Recency: Twitter often prioritizes recent tweets to keep users updated with the latest information and trends. However, it may also show older tweets that are still relevant and engaging.
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Personalization: The algorithm creates a personalized experience for each user by tailoring their feed to their specific interests and behaviors. It adapts over time as users interact with the platform.
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Follower count: The number of followers an account has can also influence the visibility of its tweets. Accounts with more followers are generally more likely to have their tweets shown to a broader audience.
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Media type: Tweets with images, videos, or other media tend to receive higher engagement and may be promoted by the algorithm.
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Quality and safety: Twitter’s algorithm also aims to promote high-quality and safe content while reducing the visibility of spam, fake news, and harmful content.
It’s important to note that Twitter periodically updates and refines its algorithm to improve the user experience and address concerns related to the spread of misinformation and harmful content. Users may also have some control over their timeline by adjusting their settings, muting accounts, or using Twitter’s features like Lists and the “Show the best Tweets first” option to customize their feed further.