Start a Chat (Send an Instant Message)

The procedure for starting a chat (sending an IM) is similar to making a call. There are three ways to start a chat:

• Select a Skype Name in your Contacts list, and click the Chat icon in the Skype main window. (Mac users: Select a Skype Name, and click the Send IM icon.)

• Right-click a Skype Name, and select Start Chat from the context menu. (Mac users: Control-click a Skype Name, and select Send Instant Message from the context menu.)

• Double-click a Skype Name in your Contacts list (if you have configured Skype to start an IM versus a call). To do this, set your General preferences as described in "Set Your Preferences" earlier in this chapter.

You can start a multiperson chat by selecting multiple Skype Names in the Contacts list while holding down the Ctrl key and then clicking the Chat icon. (Mac users: Select multiple Skype Names while holding down the Command key and then click the Send IM icon.)