Starting a new direct message

Desktop/Web

1. Click the new direct message () button next to the direct messages heading in the left sidebar, or the New direct message button at the bottom of the app.
2. Start typing the name of the person or group you want to message, and select their name from the list of suggestions. You can continue adding as many message recipients as you like.
3. Click on the compose box, or press Tab to compose your message. You can preview your message before sending.
4. Click the Send () button, or use a keyboard shortcut to send your message.

Keyboard tip: You can also use the X keyboard shortcut to start a new direct message conversation.

Tip: You can also click on any user in the right sidebar to start composing a direct message to them. Or open their user card by clicking on their profile picture or name, and select Send direct message.

Mobile

1. Tap the Direct messages () tab at the bottom of the app.
2. Tap the New DM button.
3. Start typing the name of the person you want to message, and select their name from the list of suggestions. You can continue adding as many message recipients as you like.
4. Approve by tapping the Compose button in the top right corner of the app.
5. Compose your message, and tap the Send () button in the bottom right corner of the app.

Tip: You can also tap on a user’s profile picture or name, and tap the Send direct message button at the bottom of the app.

Tip: Rather than kicking off a group direct message, consider starting the conversation in a new topic to make it easier to browse later on.

Related articles

• Getting started with Zulip
• Introduction to topics
• Replying to messages
• Messaging tips & tricks