We spend so much of our time on our smartphones. We often text our friends rather than calling them. We get our information about daily activities and work tasks from group messages rather than face-to-face meetings. We all know the power of a properly functioning App to help us organise and direct our lives.

Texting is instant, powerful, and a great way to keep communication channels with others open. However, because of its widespread and instantaneous nature, there are rules and responsibilities around texting. These rules are known as textiquette. The urban dictionary defines textiquette as the correct behaviour one should use when texting. We are going to give you some of the top textiquette guidelines to help you avoid unnecessary embarrassment.

TEXTIQUETTE: THE GOOD AND THE BAD

1. HANDS ON THE WHEEL

Never text while driving. Texting while driving is dangerous, and there is no reason to do so. If you are desperate to text while in the car, pull over to a safe location, stop, and text before hitting the road again.

2. THINK BEFORE YOU TEXT

The instant nature of texting means that you can often get carried away by emotion and hit ‘send’ on a message you might later regret. If you feel the urge to send an emotional text, pause, and take stock before clicking that button. Remember, they are forever.

3. BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU SHARE

Keep sensitive, sad or personal information out of group messages. Rather keep those kinds of messages to one-on-one chats. Whatever the message, keeping it brief is probably better. If you require paragraphs to send your message, maybe a text isn’t the perfect medium to use.

4. TIME IT OUT

Unless it is an emergency, you shouldn’t always expect people to respond to your texts straight away, especially during a workday. Allow some time to pass before texting the same message again. If you don’t get a reply, you could try a call at a later stage. Be mindful of others and reply timeously to messages you receive.

5. USE TEXT TO STAY IN TOUCH

Texting might not be a great way to engage in complex interactions, but it is the perfect tool for touching base with loved ones and letting the relevant people know where you are. Send a text to reassure your loved ones that you are safe and sound. With just a few short words, you can help yourself, and others stay safer.

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