Ah, Discord! The popular communication platform has become the go-to app for gamers, hobbyists, communities, and even professionals. If you’re new to Discord and wondering how to navigate its various features, you’re in the right place. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using Discord and making the most of its features.
1. Setting Up Your Account:
a. Registration:
- Head to the Discord website or download the app on your device.
- Click on “Register” and fill in your details: email, username, and password.
- Verify your email address through the confirmation link Discord sends.
2. Navigating the Interface:
Once logged in, you’ll see a sleek, dark-themed interface (which you can change to light theme if preferred).
a. Left Sidebar:
- Server Icons: These are round icons representing different Discord servers (communities) you’re part of.
- Plus Icon: Used to join or create a new server.
b. Middle Section:
- Displays channels and chats for the server or direct message you’ve selected.
c. Right Sidebar:
- Displays members of the server you’re in or user details in direct messages.
3. Joining and Creating Servers:
a. Joining a Server:
- Click the plus icon in the left sidebar.
- If you have an invite link, select “Join a Server” and paste the link.
- Alternatively, you can explore public servers and join them.
b. Creating a Server:
- Click the plus icon in the left sidebar.
- Choose “Create a Server”, name it, and customize it as you like.
4. Using Channels:
Each server has multiple channels, divided into text and voice channels.
a. Text Channels:
- These are chat rooms. Click on one to view its chat history and participate.
b. Voice Channels:
- Clicking on a voice channel automatically connects you to it. You’ll be live, and people can hear you (if you have a microphone connected).
5. Direct Messages:
For private one-on-one or group chats:
a. Starting a Direct Message:
- Click on the “Friends” tab on the top left.
- Search for the friend’s username and click on it to start chatting.
b. Creating a Group DM:
- Open a DM with one person.
- Click on the “Add Friends to DM” option at the top.
6. Customizing Your Experience:
a. User Settings:
- Click the gear icon near your username at the bottom left.
- Here, you can adjust audio settings, change the theme, customize keybinds, and more.
b. Server Settings:
- Available to server admins/owners. Click on the server name at the top left, then select “Server Settings”.
7. Safety and Privacy:
a. Block & Report:
- Right-click on a user’s name to block or report them.
b. Privacy Settings:
- Head to “User Settings” > “Privacy & Safety”. Here, you can adjust who can add you as a friend, who can DM you, and more.
8. Extras:
a. Bots:
- Enhance your server with automated users called bots, which can play music, moderate chats, and more.
b. Nitro:
- Discord’s premium subscription offers enhanced features like custom emojis, boosted upload limits, and more.
- Have Nitro and want to cancel? See our Article here to cancel Discord Nitro
Conclusion:
While Discord started as a platform for gamers, it has evolved into a comprehensive communication tool for all. Its combination of text, voice, and video chat, along with powerful community management tools, makes it an excellent choice for various users. Dive in, explore, and soon you’ll be navigating Discord like a pro!