Private Messages - Outbox vs. Sent Messages

[Bob]

When you send a Private Message (PM) to another forum user, it will remain in your Outbox until it is opened by the recipient. It then automatically goes to "Sent messages".

If a PM remains in your Outbox, it does not mean the message has not been sent. It has, it just hasn't been opened by the recipient yet.

There are 2 advantages to this:

You can edit or delete a PM as long as it's in your Outbox.

You can tell whether or not your message has been opened by the recipient.

If you receive an e-mail telling you have you have a Private Message, then you do not find one in your Inbox, it means the sender has deleted the PM. That e-mail is sent immediately when a PM is sent, and cannot be taken back if the PM is deleted.

[Amanda]

Hi Bob,

I've received a Private Message once or twice, but can't figure out how to send one. How is it done?

Thanks,

Amanda

[Bob]

Hi Bob,

I've received a Private Message once or twice, but can't figure out how to send one. How is it done?

Thanks,

Amanda

Up toward the top left, to the right of "User Control Panel", click on where it shows you how many new messages you have (could be 0). That takes you to Private Messaging. Click on the "NEW PM" button to compose a new Private Message. You'll have to fill in the username of the person to whom you are sending the PM in the space provided and a subject.