What Are Tweet Characters?
If you use Twitter, you are well aware of the character limitations that apply, but if you do not you may be wondering what exactly a tweet character is. Tweet characters are simply what you use to compose a message -- or tweet -- before sending it off. Knowing how to maximize your characters will allow you to send more information per tweet.
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Characters
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If you have a Twitter account, you only have a certain amount of tweet characters at your disposal per message that you can send. A tweet character is any kind of letter, number or symbol you write in your message. Like text messaging, you only have 140 characters to use when creating a message. You can always separate your message into two -- or even three or more -- tweets if the character limitation is creating a problem. However, if you have a long message to send, it may prove wiser to send it in an email, post it on Facebook or simply call the person you are trying to reach.
Art of Shortcuts
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Just like text messaging, using shortcuts when composing a tweet allows you to get your message across with the number of characters you have to work with. A shortcut is simply a faster way of writing a word or phrase. For example, instead of writing "that movie last night was so funny I laughed a lot," simplify it by saying "that movie made me LOL." The term "LOL" stands for "laugh out loud." This will leave more characters available to play around with. You can also shorten certain words. Instead of writing "love" write "luv." Those who use Twitter -- or text -- on a regular basis should know what you mean.
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Tweet Sentence Structure
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When you are composing a tweet, try to avoid using full sentences and proper grammar. Twitter is designed for short bursts of information sharing, not long drawn out conversations. Shortening your sentences will save you characters and let you fit all information into one tweet. For example, instead of using phrases such as "and," use a plus sign. Instead of writing out words, use symbols instead. If you are telling someone about the number of times you have done something, use the number symbol (#) instead of writing out the word "number." Avoid using phrases such as "I would not" and "I could not." Instead, write "I wont" and "I cant." Don't use apostrophes.
More Characters
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Some people are not too thrilled with the character limitations imposed on them when using Twitter. One such person is Farhad Manjoo, who works for Slate, and argues that the character limitation feels "less like a feature than a big, obvious bug." Manjoo suggests the character limitation be raised to 280. However, Lance Ulanoff of "PC Magazine" disagrees, arguing that Twitter is not designed for long conversations but rather quick comments. As of 2011, the 140 character limitation still applies to Twitter.
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