What if I told you that your iPhone settings contains one of the simplest tools that can save you the most time?
We all know the dreaded Auto Correct, where a seemingly innocuous text can transform into something that we definitely did not intend to say.
In iPhone speak, this is called “Text Replacement.”
What is Text Replacement?
For example: when you first get an iPhone (or do a major update), “omw” auto-corrects to “On my way!” I have yet to meet anyone who prefers this, so we usually change it in our settings. Using the same concept, though, we can create shortcuts and save some time and avoid headaches.
I know what you’re thinking…it doesn’t take THAT long to type your name or email address. It probably doesn’t. But any saved time is time saved, and using this method reduces typos and frustration. It’s one of those great life hacks that you can mindlessly do while you watch TV and feel like a superhero later when you use it.
You can use this for everything from email signatures to your company name. A few ideas…
- “nname” to your full name
- “eemail” to your email address
- “asreq” for “As requested,” a big timesaver with emails
- Your city or town, particularly if your city or town name is a tad on the long side
Added bonus: if you use an iPad and/or Mac, Text Replacement works across devices. Major timesaver!
How to Use Text Replacement
Check out the video below to see how to add shortcuts, and see it in action — keep scrolling if you want to see written instructions.
- On your iPhone, open Settings.
- Open General, then Keyboard
- Tap on Text Replacement
- Tap the + icon in the upper righthand corner
- For PHRASE, tap out what you want your text to correct to. Try it out with your email address.
- For SHORTCUT, put a SHORT string. In this case, you can use “eemail.”
Now, whenever you type the shortcut, it auto corrects to your email address.
