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Before you start
- WhatsApp installed and set up with your number
- Internet access
- A known contact who uses WhatsApp
A clear way through this guide.
We’ll show you one step at a time. When you’re ready, press Done — next step. You can go back or take a break whenever you like.
5 steps · Your own pace
Send and reply to a WhatsApp message
Step 1 of 5: Open the Chats area
Open WhatsApp and find Chats. Tap a familiar conversation, or use the new-chat control to choose a contact. The control may look like a speech bubble or a square with a pencil; its position varies by version.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 2 of 5: Check the person first
Read the name at the top and check the number or contact details if unsure. A profile picture alone does not verify who owns an account. Stop if an unexpected person asks for money, passwords or a sign-in code.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 3 of 5: Write a short message
Tap the message box near the bottom and type a simple greeting. Read it before sending. Tap the send arrow rather than the microphone, which records audio. Your message should appear in the conversation.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 4 of 5: Reply when a message arrives
Open the same chat, tap the message box and write your answer. To quote a particular message, touch and hold it and choose Reply if offered. Check that the quoted message is the one you intended before sending.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 5 of 5: Leave and return
Use your phone’s Home control, then reopen WhatsApp and Chats. Find the conversation again. Avoid sharing private information in a group; everyone in that group may be able to see what you send.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Take your time. Next marks this step done.
You’ve finished this guide.
Every step is complete. You can come back and practise again whenever you like.
Your small practice task.
Agree a test with a friend, send a greeting and reply to their answer.
Completing the guide records your progress here; it does not check your device settings.
A common question.
Do I need to pay for mobile data?
That depends on your plan. WhatsApp uses an internet connection; home Wi-Fi can avoid using your mobile data allowance.
Official help, if you need it.
These links provide the product’s own instructions or relevant public guidance. Settings can differ by model and software version.