Your first five minutes

Minute 1: arrive

Open www.conferencerooms.org/chat/. You see a list of rooms with a line about each one. Rooms marked "Live now" have people in them right now.

Minute 2: choose a room

Click a room that sounds interesting. If you are not sure, pick one with a few people. The window that opens is the room. Nothing happens until you type, so take a moment to look around.

Minute 3: read first

Scroll up a little and read what people have been talking about. The line at the top of the room, the topic, often explains what the room is for and sometimes lists rules.

Minute 4: say hello

Click the box at the bottom, type a short hello and press Enter. A greeting such as "Hi, I am new here" is perfect. People are usually happy to help.

Minute 5: find your way

• The list on the left shows the rooms you are in. You can join more.
• The list on the right shows who is in the room. Click a name to talk privately.
• The round arrow next to the box also sends your message.
• If something does not work, look at Status in the room list. Replies from the network appear there.

When you are ready

Choose a nickname that is yours, register it and create your own room.