How to Use Text Facility Technology to Communicate

Rather than calling someone, many people now choose to communicate via text.

Many people all over the world have adapted sending and receiving text messages as a major form of communication. CNET news reports that in 2008 the average U.S mobile subscriber had sent and received 357 text messages per month, this number has increased by 450 percent since 2006. While there are several different types of cell phones, the texting application is virtually the same on all cell phone types.

Things You'll Need

• Cell Phone

Instructions

1. Select the main menu button on your cellphone. Under the main menu select text message, or SMS (short message system).

2. Choose the compose message or new message option.

3. Type in the number and area code of the person you wish to text communicate with. It is important to make sure you type in the area code or else your message will not send.

4. Select "okay," and you will be able to begin typing your message. Each number on your phone should correspond with a set of alphabetical letters. Use these letters to type your message. For example, to type the letter B press the number two quickly twice, to type the letter C press the number two quickly three times. After you have completed your first word press the 0 button for a space. Since this is a SMS most phones will only allow you to type 160 characters.

5. Attach any documents, pictures, or files on your phone to the message by using your options menu, selecting the attachment button, then finding the item you wish to attach.

6. Hit the send or OK button to send the message.

Tips & Warnings

• Many people prefer to set their phone on "T9". This is a system that recognizes what word you want as you type. In this system you will only need to hit each button once. For example in the regular ABC mode to type HI, you would hit the four key twice quickly, then pauce and hit the four key three times quickly. In the T9 mode, you would hit the four key twice and the word "HI" would appear. To use this option, before you type a message select the option button, then select T9.

• Depending on yours and the recepient's cell phone package, you and the recepient may be charged for the message.

References

• CNET News: Americans Text More than they Talk
• Learn to Use T9: What is T9