How to Reply to Slack Messages on PC or Mac

This updated guide explains how to Reply to Slack Messages on PC or Mac through clear steps, practical examples, and important checks that help prevent common errors.

Method 1 of 2:

Replying to a Direct Message

Open Slack. You can do this by navigating to your team's URL in a web browser. Or, if you have the desktop application, click it in the Applications folder (macOS) or the Windows menu (Windows).
Select a message. Your messages appear under the 'Direct Messages' header in the left column. Clicking a user's name will open a conversation with that user.
Type a message. To start typing, click the box at the bottom of the screen that says 'Message @username.'
Press ↵ Enter or ⏎ Return. Your message will appear in the conversation.

Method 2 of 2:

Replying in a Channel

Open Slack. You can do this by navigating to your team's URL in a web browser. Or, if you have the desktop application, click it in the Applications folder (macOS) or the Windows menu (Windows).
Select a channel. Channels appear in the left column under the 'Channels' header.
Hover your mouse over a message. Four icons will appear at its upper-right side.
Click the chat bubble icon. It's the second icon in the row. This expands the Threads column on the right side of the window. Threads are easy ways to have side conversations in Slack without taking over the channel.
Type your reply. You'll see the typing area near the bottom of the Threads column.
- If you want this user to receive a direct message containing your response, check the box next to 'Also send as a direct message.'
Click Send. Your message will now appear in the thread.

FAQ

What is the easiest way to Reply to Slack Messages on PC or Mac?

Start with the requirements in this guide, then follow each step in order. Check the result after every major change so problems are easier to identify.