Tech Tips for Teaching & Learning

GMail Keyboard Shortcuts

I'm a big fan of keyboard shortcuts. They save time since you don't need to move your hand from the keyboard to the mouse to make something happen.

To use shortcuts in GMail, first click Settings (upper right), and then pick Keyboard shortcuts on. Go back to your email; you will now be able to use these shortcuts. Start by picking a couple of commands you use often (like c for Compose, or shift-c to compose in a new window), and add others over time.

EMail tips to start the new year

A few tips and reminders to enhance your 2008 email experience...

• Avoid sending an email to everyone when it's only intended for a few. Though it takes you a few more minutes to type in those email addresses, look up the group name, or create a mailing group, it reduces the amount of mail in everyone's inbox and increases the likelihood it won't be overlooked.
• Avoid responding to a email with a totally unrelated message. Example: you send me an email about a problem with your computer, and I respond with a message about tech day. This makes it hard to find messages when searching later. The subject line should, well, describe the subject!
• Speaking of the subject line, use one! Don't leave it blank.
• Use labels to put your email into categories before archiving it. This will help you to find it later.
• Take the time to learn how to use contacts and mailing groups. The time you spend up front will save you time later.
• Don't use ALL CAPS in your email. THIS IS CONSIDERED SHOUTING, WHICH IS RUDE.
• The rule of thumb about counting to ten when you're angry applies doubly to email. Remember that email does not capture your inflection, gestures or facial expressions; it can easily be misinterpreted. It is also captured in writing and could be forwarded to many people; once you send it out, you have no control over it. Consider using another method of communication if the subject is sensitive or emotional.
• Remember that your CDH email is for school-related use only, consistent with our mission and values. Use a separate account for personal email.

Master GMail

Sure you went to GMail training and you've been using it for over a month now! But if you still have some questions or would like a refresher on what you can do with it, try this article from PC Magazine: Master GMail (Tips and tricks to make Google's GMail work harder for you).

GMail FAQ's

A few tips on using GMail:

• How do I change my password?
  • Click on Settings => Accounts. The link to change your password is toward the bottom of the page.
• How do I add a signature?
  • Click on Settings => General.
• What's the difference between Archive and Delete?
  • Selecting Archive gets the mail out of your inbox, but it is still in All Mail where you can find it if you do a search. Selecting Delete puts the file into the Deleted folder. GMail recommends that you put any mail you might possibly want to get to ever again into the Archive rather than deleting. Use labels to keep things organized.

Keep those questions coming!