Texting Dos and Don'ts

TEXTING DO'S

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TEXTING DON'TS

Standard SMS texts 
must be 160 characters 
or fewer.

Cutting characters can be useful, 
but avoid outdated abbreviations 
such as "U", "R", "2" and "Y".

Using participants' first names 
drives engagement and keeps 
messages relevant. 

Starting every text by 
reintroducing yourself is 
redundant. 

Connect with your 
students in a non-robotic 
way. Use a conversational 
tone in your messages. 

Texts aren't the same as 
emails. Sending more than 
three parts in a row may lose 
the student's attention. 

High schoolers are more likely to 
read texts before and after 
school. Send before 8am or after 
3pm. College students respond 
best between 10am-2pm.

Aim to send your texts 
during the week. 
Students are less likely 
to read texts over the 
weekend.

Students love receiving 
emojis, memes, gifs and 
photos. Add these to give 
your messages a boost. 🚀

Avoid messaging more than 
once a week, so that students 
pay attention to your 
messages when it counts.