How to Find My E-mail Format

Email is composed and sent in two primary formats: HTML, the same programming language used for many websites, and plain text. HTML emails can contain graphics, making for a richer experience. However, they can also contain malicious scripts. For this reason, some choose not to receive email in the HTML format. An HTML email may look odd on the recipient's computer if their email client is configured to view email in plain text only. Check your email client's settings to see whether you are sending email using HTML or plain text.

Instructions

Microsoft Outlook

1. Click "Tools," then click "Options."

2. Click the "Mail Format" tab.

3. Examine the drop-down menu next to "Message format." Your default email format is shown here.

Microsoft Outlook Express, Windows Mail and Windows Live Mail

1. Click "Tools," then click "Options."

2. Click the "Send" tab.

3. Examine the radio button selected under "Mail Sending Format." Your default email format is shown here.

Mozilla Thunderbird

1. Click "Tools," then click "Account Settings."

2. Click "Composition & Addressing" under the email account of which you would like to check the email format.

3. Examine the check box next to "Compose messages in HTML format." This check box determines the email format.

References

• MozillaZine: Plain Text Email (Thunderbird)