> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.mantle.chat/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Direct messages

> Have a private one-to-one conversation with a teammate.

Use a direct message, or DM, for a one-to-one conversation with another member of your organization. DMs are separate
from workspaces, so the conversation stays available while you move between projects.

## Start a direct message

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Direct messages">
    Select **Direct messages** in the left rail, or select the **+** beside the workspace selector and choose **New
    Direct Message**. You can also press **Command + G** on Mac or **Ctrl + G** on Windows and Linux.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose a teammate">Search for a member of your organization and open the conversation.</Step>
  <Step title="Send a message">Add text, files, images, links, or emoji as needed.</Step>
</Steps>

You can reply in threads, react, edit your own messages, and start a huddle. You can also message yourself to save a
short note or link.

## DM or channel?

Use a DM when the conversation is personal, sensitive, or useful to only one other person. Use a channel when the work
should be discoverable by a team or may help someone later.

When a DM produces a project decision, post the decision in the relevant channel or canvas. This prevents important
context from being trapped in a private conversation.

## When someone leaves

If the other person is no longer a member of the organization, the existing conversation remains as history but may
become read-only.

<Note>
  A DM is for people. To work privately with AI, start an AI chat in your personal workspace. To involve both teammates
  and AI, use a shared AI chat or a channel.
</Note>