How To Use Twitter

How To Use Twitter

Written by BCipolla

Video by bender +27
With Twitter you have the potential to reach millions of users instantly. Use it to issue public safety alerts, broadcast real-time news developments, inform constituents, or solicit feedback. It’s free and easy to use – here's how to get started.
You Will Need

A computer with internet access

Mobile internet access

Texting capabilities

A computer with internet access

Mobile internet access

Texting capabilities
Step 1: Set up an account

Create an account. Go to Twitter.com and click the green “Get Started” button to join. Enter your name, user name, password, and email address, and you’re good to go.

Step 2: Decide on your message

Decide what you want to say. In general, Twitter messages, or “tweets,” answer the question, “What are you doing right now?” But you can also post a link, express an opinion or reaction, or pose a question.

Tip

Twitter keeps things short and sweet: Messages can be no longer than 140 characters.

Step 3: Start typing

On the home page, type your message into the box at the top of the screen and hit “Update.” Congratulations! You’ve posted your first tweet!

Tip

If your tweet is intended for one user in particular, type the ‘@’ symbol followed by that user’s screen name before the text of your message.

Step 4: Find people

Twitter is a two-way street. Now that you’ve posted your first update, choose people whose updates you want to follow. To search by name, click on “Find People” in the upper right corner and then click the “Find on Twitter” tab. You can follow individuals, like friends and colleagues, and groups, like news services, organizations, and nonprofits.

Tip

People may be listed under a screen name that doesn’t match their real name.

Step 5: Start following