The current systematic review study explores instructional designer practices to develop a comprehensive understanding of strategies employed by instructional designers and the expectations of the field. Using the PRISMA protocol, a total of 98 articles were included in the review consisting of 65 qualitative, 15 quantitative, and 18 mixed-methods studies. Instructional designer practices were analyzed through the lens of 10 different topical areas: (1) Attitudes and perceptions, (2) decision-making and design judgments, (3) design strategies, (4) professional development and professional identity, (5) design heuristics, (6) instructional designer and faculty relationships, (7) instructional design competencies, (8) problem-solving, (9) instructional design teams, (10) change management and organizational development. Evidence-based recommendations and suggestions for practices of current and future instructional designers were discussed.