HOW TO USE GMAIL BASICS

Navigating Your Inbox

Gmail, one of the world's most popular email platforms, boasts a user-friendly interface combined with powerful tools to streamline your email communication. Whether you're new to Gmail or just need a refresher on the basics, this guide will help you manage your digital correspondence efficiently.

1. Setting Up Gmail:

Access: Go to the Gmail website or download the Gmail mobile app.
Sign In: If you already have a Google account, sign in. If not, you'll need to create one.

2. Understanding the Inbox:

Primary, Social, and Promotions: Gmail automatically categorizes emails to declutter your inbox.
Starred: Emails you've marked as important or for follow-up.
Spam: Gmail filters potential junk emails here. Always review occasionally to ensure legitimate emails aren't wrongly categorized.

3. Composing an Email:

Click the red "Compose" button.
Fill in the recipient's email address, subject, and the body of the email.
Attach files by clicking the paperclip icon.

4. Managing Emails:

Archiving: Removes emails from the inbox but keeps them in 'All Mail'.
Deleting: Sends emails to the 'Trash'. They get permanently deleted after 30 days.
Labels: Categorize emails using labels. Think of them as folders, but more flexible. An email can have multiple labels.

5. Searching Emails:

Use the search bar at the top. Gmail’s search is powerful and can find emails based on various criteria.

6. Filters and Blocked Addresses:

Set filters to automatically label, archive, delete, or flag messages.
Block specific email addresses to avoid receiving unwanted messages.

7. Using Tabs and Categories:

Gmail sorts emails into tabs like Primary, Social, and Promotions. You can customize which emails go where.

8. Setting Up Signatures:

Automatically add a signature, like your name and contact info, at the end of every email. Set this up in Settings > See all settings > General.

9. Integrating Google Services:

Gmail seamlessly integrates with Google Calendar, Google Meet, and other Google services, evident in the sidebar on the right.

10. Enhancing Security:

Enable two-factor authentication for added account security.
Regularly review third-party apps that have access to your Gmail.

Conclusion:

Gmail is more than just an email platform; it's a comprehensive communication tool with features designed to make your online communication efficient and organized. Familiarizing yourself with these basics will not only help you navigate your inbox with ease but also maximize the benefits of Gmail's robust set of tools.