WEB GENRE FLUENCY - Entry 1

Almost everyone who uses computers, and especially the Internet, has used, or at least heard of email. Email is a unique mode of communication unlike the telephone or sending mail through the post office (also called "snail mail"). However, most people don't realize the extent that email can be used in many different forms.

Email is typically thought of a way for people to communicate and send quick notes to friends. This can be useful in many ways. People can say exactly what they want to say before sending their message. It also elimates the back and forth of a telephone conversation. Often, people may not have time to call someone and have a conversation, but they can write them a quick email to let them know something.

Businesses have begun using email as a staple of communication. In the speed that many businesses run now, many people don't have time to call someone and have a conversation when all they need is to give them a quick piece of information. Email elminates needing to find a way out of the conversation when you need to go. Instead of accepting a phone call whenever it comes, which can often be inconvenient, you can check your e-mail and respond whenever it is most convenient for you.

The language in these different types of email can often be very different. Personal e-mails can often be written in a type of web shorthand. (For example - saying want 2 meet at 3 - mall?) Instead of typing out Would you like to meet me at the mall at 3:00?) Business emails are also often short, but usually try to use correct grammar to be sure the person you are communicating with can understand you.

Email can also be used to share information and data. Instead of burning something to a CD and hand delivering it, you can simply attach it to an email. If the file is too large, it can usually be zipped up and emailed. Pictures, links to websites, drawings and other data can all be shared with email.

There are many online email systems that are provided free. Hotmail, yahoo, google, and many other websites provide free email. Many internet providers also offer their clients free email. It is not hard to sign up for email, and usually makes life a lot easier.

Even if a person doesn't have anyone they would like to e-mail, or any reason to send anyone else anything, it is still useful to have a e-mail address to send things to yourself. This is a way to transfer your own files from different computers, and to have access to your own information anywhere you are.