Instant messaging is a cross between talking on the phone and sending an email. Each message you send is received immediately on the other end. The other person can then type their own reply to you. Popular programs include AIM, Windows Live Messenger and Yahoo! Messenger. Instant messaging is fun and it's easy to get started.
Difficulty: Average
Time Required: 5-10 minutes
Here's How:
- Choose and download an instant messaging program. For help choosing an IM program, visit Top Instant Messaging Programs.
- Install the program.
- Add friends/contacts to your IM program. You typically need to know the user name or email address for your friend. For most instant messaging programs, your friends need to use the same program you are using. Your friends must accept you as a contact. If other people want to add you, you will have to accept them as well.
- Double-click on a contact name to start a chat.
Tips:
- If your friends aren’t online when you send your message, they will usually receive it when they next log on.
- Most instant messaging programs have an option to remain “hidden” even when you are online. Use this when you don’t want to be interrupted.
- Check the options in your program to see if you can create an archive. This can be useful to save conversations you have with others.
- You can usually block unwanted messages from another user.
