For example, you might use email to send a job application letter or to communicate with a coworker or classmate about a complicated project. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can manage your email with a browser-based email program, like Gmail, or desktop-based software applications, such as Outlook. Another advantage of email is that you can often use it to send large files, such as pictures and text documents.
Some social media platforms, like Facebook and Tumblr, have built-in instant messaging capabilities. Some voice/video calling apps, such as Skype, also have text messaging features. You can also exchange instant messages over apps like WhatsApp and Wire. Online chat rooms allow you to exchange instant messages with multiple people in a group or community setting. You can connect with chat rooms through websites like Mibbit, mIRC, and Discord.
Some popular online voice and video services include Skype, Zoom, Facetime, Google Hangouts, and Facebook Messenger. These tools can be great for having more personal conversations with friends and family who are far away. They’re also useful tools for remote interviews, work meetings, and online classes.
Some websites have their own discussion forums built-in. For example, if you’re a parent, you can communicate with other parents on the BabyCenter. com community boards. You can also find discussion groups on some social media websites, like Facebook, or older blogging platforms, like LiveJournal.
“Is this clear and concise, or is any of it confusing or awkwardly worded?” “Have I said everything I want to say?” “Is there anything unnecessary here that I could remove?” “Does anything I’ve said here sound insensitive?”
Sometimes you can clarify your intentions with a well-placed emoji, like a winking smiley after a joke or ironic remark. Many people online use /s to mean “sarcasm” at the end of a sarcastic comment. Even if your intent seems obvious to you, it may not be to other people. For example, even if you say something completely ridiculous, such as “I think eating wood chips is a great idea,” readers might take you literally and react with surprise and disgust.
As a general rule, try not to say anything online that you wouldn’t say to someone’s face. If you disagree with someone, address what they’re saying rather than attacking them as a person. For example, instead of saying “You’re an idiot if you believe that!” you could say, “I get what you’re saying, but I don’t think that’s true. ”
Many browsers and email programs have built-in spellchecker tools that can help you catch spelling errors and typos. Watch out for common errors that your spellchecker might not catch, like mixing up “your” and “you’re. ”
For example, if you’re writing an email to your professor or posting on a class bulletin board, it’s probably best not to end with “c u l8r!” Instead, use a more formal sign-off, like “I look forward to seeing you in class tomorrow. Best, Kylie. ”
In most groups, members are expected to be respectful and courteous to each other. There may also be rules about what kinds of content you are allowed to post. For example, some groups forbid content that is “not safe for work” (NSFW), meaning you shouldn’t post anything that someone wouldn’t want to get caught looking at on a work computer.
For example, if your Aunt Bertha posts an infographic claiming that eating Swiss cheese can cure bunions, do a little research before you share it. Try to find an article from a reliable medical website or journal about the health benefits of Swiss cheese.
A good rule of thumb is to never share anything online that you wouldn’t show off in public. For example, don’t share or post explicit pictures or talk about embarrassing or inappropriate things that you did. Many social media sites allow you to post pictures and information privately or to only a limited audience. However, keep in mind that someone could potentially share what you post against your wishes. Only share private information with people you trust.
Don’t share sensitive or personal information with strangers online. For example, you should probably avoid giving your phone number or home address to someone you just met in a chat room.
Don’t share anyone’s contact information with others online without asking them first. Don’t post potentially embarrassing information about other people unless they say it’s okay. For example, you may think it’s hilarious that your best friend got drunk and threw up in your houseplant last night, but she might not want everyone on Facebook to know about it.
