How to Use Tiny URL to Shorten Links

Long URLs can be trouble.

Long web addresses can make it hard for people to find your web site. In e-mails or documents, long addresses do not fit on a single line and break to the next line. TinyURL.com is a free Internet redirection service that translates long URLs to shorter ones. You can also hide affiliate addresses with this service. URL stands for Uniform Resource Locator, and refers to web addresses.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Copy the long URL you wish to shorten.

2. Go to TinyURL.com and paste the URL. Enter the long URL under the "Welcome to TinyURL" paragraph.

3. Click "Make TinyURL." The site will redirect you to a page that shows your original URL as well as the new URL. The new URL is automatically saved to your clipboard. There is no need to copy it again, but saving the page is a good idea for record keeping. The shorter URL will be http://tinyurl.com/ followed by a short series of numbers and letters.

4. Use the preview option. The preview link will take users to the TinyURL site and allow them to see the link referenced before going to that site. Previewing the link helps others know you aren't sneaking them into an inappropriate web site.

Tips & Warnings

• Add TinyURL to your browser to create Tiny URLs with one click.

• Use the TinyURL when speaking or chatting with people; it is easier to write down or remember.

• Using this service for spamming or illegal operations is against the terms of use.

Resources

• Tiny URL