Create a Slack workspace or join an existing one
Install Slack on desktop or mobile, or use the web app
Sign in with your email/SSO credentials
Complete your profile (name, photo, timezone)
Set your status (available, away, busy)
Use the left sidebar to navigate channels, direct messages, and apps
Find channels and join with the Join option (or follow an invite link)
Create a private channel if your workspace supports it
Start a direct message with a person from the sidebar or search
Send a message in a channel or DM
Use @mentions to notify people
React to messages with emoji reactions
Reply in a thread to keep conversations organized
Use / commands (for example: /remind, /shrug, /giphy if enabled)
Share files by attaching or dragging files into a message
Search for messages, people, and files using the search bar
Pin important messages (if permitted)
Mute or follow channels to control notifications
Adjust notification settings in Preferences
Use Do Not Disturb / scheduling if available
Create and manage huddles (if enabled)
Invite others to a channel or DM from the channel header or message area
Use integrations/apps (Google Drive, Jira, GitHub, etc.) from the Apps section
Manage workspace settings you control (notifications, profile, security)
Sign out when finished (if using shared devices)