Texting Shorthand Tips

Reading and writing texting shorthand is like learning a new language. While the characters may look familiar, the meanings may be lost on you. When it comes to using texting shorthand to communicate messages to friends, family and co-workers, use these tips to make the most of this instant method of communication.

Texting shorthand is the ultimate form of casual electronic conversation, with only an average of 160 characters available for any single message. Texting shorthand takes an already informal method and makes it even more casual.

• Consider the commonness of the particular shorthand code you choose. It's a waste of time to send a message just to have the recipient text back "?" to you.
• Double check that any recipient above the age of 35 is familiar with the lingo of texting shorthand. Using undecipherable code in a text is a sure way to alienate an older recipient, especially if he is just learning how to text.
• Never use abbreviations in business communication texts, especially with someone in authority. While some companies do develop their own texting shorthand to speed business communication, general texting etiquette requires that words should be spelled out.
• In e-mails and texting, using ALL CAPS is the equivalent of shouting. Avoid using all capital letters unless shouting is really the way you want to get your message across.
• Use emoticons. They are the little faces that express particular emotions. Since the tone of text message shorthand is difficult to interpret, using an emoticon can clearly convey in a single image what 160 characters written in texting shorthand are attempting to say.
• Choose the right texting shorthand for the situation. Don't type in ASAP, 911 or other urgent indicators if the message isn't really that important. There are dozens of texting shorthand codes out there that succinctly express ideas, feelings or questions, so get familiar and use the right thing at the right time.
• Avoid profanity. Many texting shortcuts include initials for profanity, so get familiar with what each shorthand means, and use discernment before you send vulgar messages to friends or family members who may not appreciate them.