Digital Literacy

Email (electronic mail) is one of the most common ways to send messages, documents, and other information over the internet. It's fast, convenient, and essential for communication in both personal and professional life.

Email is a method of sending and receiving messages through the internet. It allows you to exchange messages, files, photos, and links with others. Unlike traditional mail, email is nearly instantaneous, and you don't need to leave your house to send or receive it.

Before you can send and receive emails, you'll need to set up an email account. Some of the most common free email providers are:

• Gmail (by Google)
• Yahoo Mail
• Outlook (by Microsoft)
• Apple Mail (for iOS and macOS users)

Steps to Set Up Email (as an example):

1. Go to www.gmail.com.
2. Click Create Account.
3. Follow the prompts to enter your name, choose an email address (like "yourname@gmail.com"), and create a password.
4. Once set up, you can start sending and receiving emails.

1. Opening Your Email Account

• Open your web browser and go to the website of your email provider (e.g., gmail.com, yahoo.com).
• Log in using your email address and password.

2. Writing an Email

• In your email account, click the Compose button (usually a button with a pencil or plus sign).
• To: Enter the recipient's email address.
• Subject: Write a brief title that tells the recipient what your email is about.
• Body: This is where you write your message.

3. Adding Attachments

• If you want to send pictures, documents, or other files, look for the attachment icon (usually a paperclip).
• Click it, select the file you want to attach, and wait for it to upload.

4. Sending the Email

• Once your email is ready, click the Send button.

1. Opening an Email

• In your inbox (the main screen of your email account), click on the email subject to open and read it.

2. Replying to an Email

• To respond to an email, click the Reply button (usually at the bottom of the email).
• Write your message in the reply box and click Send.

3. Forwarding an Email

• If you want to share an email with someone else, click Forward. Then, enter the recipient's email address and click Send.

1. Folders

• Most email services allow you to organize emails into folders. Create folders for categories like "Work," "Family," or "Receipts."
• Move emails into folders by dragging them or using the options in your inbox.

2. Archiving and Deleting Emails

• Archiving: This removes an email from your inbox but keeps it in your account in case you need it later.
• Deleting: Removes the email permanently. Be careful, as deleted emails usually can't be recovered.

1. Keep it Clear and Simple

• Use a clear and concise subject line.
• In the body of your email, be polite and professional, especially if it's for work or business.

2. Be Careful with Attachments

• Only open attachments from trusted sources. Sometimes, attachments can contain viruses or malware.

3. Reply All (When to Use)

• Use Reply All only if everyone in the email thread needs to see your response. Don't spam everyone unecessarily.

• Ctrl+R (Windows)/ Cmd+R (Mac) to Reply to an email.
• Ctrl+Shift+R (Windows)/ Cmd+Shift+R (Mac) to Reply All.
• Ctrl+F (Windows)/ Cmd+F (Mac) to Search for specific emails.

When sending an email to someone for the first time, include a friendly greeting like "Hi [Name]," and always close your message with something like "Best regards" or "Sincerely."