How to Use TextExpander

Getting started with TextExpander

In this guide, you'll learn how to set up TextExpander and create your first text snippets to improve your team's communication efficiency. By the end, you'll be ready to save time and standardise your messaging.

Step 1: Sign up and set up

1. Go to TextExpander's website.
2. Click on the “Get Started” button at the top right corner.
3. Choose a pricing plan that suits your needs (note that there is no free tier).
4. Fill in your details to create your account, and confirm your email address.
5. Log in to your TextExpander account.

Step 2: Your first snippet

1. Once logged in, navigate to the “Snippets” tab in the left sidebar.
2. Click on the “New Snippet” button.
3. In the “Content” field, type the text you want to save (e.g., “Thank you for your inquiry! We’ll get back to you shortly.”).
4. In the “Abbreviation” field, enter a short code (e.g., “tyi”).
5. Click “Save” to store your snippet.
6. To use it, type the abbreviation in any text field, and it will automatically expand into the full text.

Step 3: Get better results

1. Explore the “Fill-in” feature by clicking on “New Snippet” and selecting “Fill-in Snippet.” This allows you to create snippets that require user input, such as names or dates.
2. Use the “Folders” option to organise your snippets by categories (e.g., Sales, Support).
3. Regularly review and update your snippets to keep them relevant and useful.

Pro tip

Use the “Shared Groups” feature to create a library of snippets that your entire team can access. This ensures everyone is using the same messaging and saves time on training.

Common mistake to avoid

Avoid creating overly complex abbreviations that are hard to remember. Stick to simple, intuitive codes to ensure you can quickly recall and use your snippets when needed.