A new trend has been popping up all over the world - on mobile phones! SMS messages are becoming as common as telephone calls because they're fast, cheap and fun. Here are some tips on using SMS, or Short Message Service, to get your message across in English.

Text me!

English has a very difficult spelling system, and it can take a long time to spell out one word. So, many people now shorten words to speed up the process. This saves time and money, but it can also confuse people if they are not familiar with the current trends. Also, mastering the language of text messages first requires mastering English.

SMS slang can be broken up into two basic categories: acronyms and contractions.

Acronyms

Acronyms are words formed from the first letter of several words (such as UN for United Nations). In text messaging, acronyms are used for common phrases. Additionally, single letters may replace words that they sound like. Check out these examples:

OIC - Oh I see.
BRB - Be right back…
BFN - Bye for now
LOL - Laughing out loud
ASAP - As soon as possible
BTW - By the way…
FYI - For your information…
JK - Just kidding
TTYL - Talk to you later

Contractions

SMS contractions aren't the same as regular ones like "don't" or "they're", but the purpose is the same: to remove unnecessary parts of words while keeping the meaning clear. Vowels are often eliminated, but you can still make out the general sound of the word. The number 8 sometimes represents the sound of eight, so later becomes l8r. The number 4 is also common as a replacement for the for sound as is 2 for to. Take a look at these SMS contractions:

Plz - Please
Thx - Thanks
Cya - See you
L8r - Later
K - OK
U - You
R - Are
B4 - Before
2morro - Tomorrow

As you can see, writing this way can be complicated, and you should have a good grasp of English before trying to shorten your messages. Using too many abbreviations will make your SMS confusing to the reader or look unprofessional with your business contacts.

Can you keep a secret?

SMS is definitely convenient, but it should be used for casual conversations while keeping your audience in mind. You shouldn't be sending text messages to your boss! Additionally, remember that messages sent can easily be saved and retrieved, or even sent to the wrong person – so you may find yourself in an embarrassing situation if you are not cautious! The next time you want to send a very personal message think carefully before you press the "Send" button or you might end up sending your boss a message meant for your sweetheart!