How to Format Text in Messenger: Bold, Italics, and More

Ever wanted to make certain words or phrases stand out in your Facebook Messenger chats? If you’re using Messenger on a desktop browser, you’re in luck! Facebook Messenger on the Web offers several text formatting options. This formatting does not work on the messenger app.

Here’s a quick guide to adding style to your messages in Messenger.

Understanding Text Formatting in Messenger

Facebook Messenger has a lot of features, and text formatting is one you can easily use by adding specific characters around the text. Each formatting style has its own symbol, which you place at the start and end of the text you want to emphasize.

Currently, only the desktop version of Messenger fully supports these text formatting options. However, if you send formatted text from your mobile, anyone viewing your message on desktop will see the effects. On the other hand, if you apply formatting from a computer and your friend is on mobile, they’ll see the symbols instead of the formatted style.

Below are the steps to apply different text styles in your messages.

How to Make Text Bold in Messenger

To make text bold, add an asterisk (*) before and after your text. Bold is great for emphasizing key words or important points.

Example:
*This text will be bold*

How to Use Italics in Messenger

For italics, use underscores (_) on either side of the text. Italics are often used to emphasize specific words, highlight names, or when quoting something.

Example:
_This text will be italicized_

How to Apply Strikethrough Text in Messenger

For strikethrough text, place a tilde (~) before and after the text. This style is ideal for indicating changes or deletions.

Example:

~This text will be struck through~

How to Add Monospaced Text in Messenger

To create monospaced text, enclose your text in backticks (`). Monospaced text, where each character has the same width, is popular for displaying code snippets or technical content.

Example:

`This text will be monospaced`

How to Share Code Blocks in Messenger

Sharing a block of code is slightly different. Here’s how to do it:

Start with three backticks (```).
Add a line break (Shift + Enter).
Type your code or text.
Add another line break.
Close with three backticks and send.

Your text will be displayed in a code block format, ideal for sharing programming snippets or larger chunks of text.

Enhance Your Messages With Text Formatting

Text formatting in Messenger lets you bring emphasis and clarity to your conversations. While you may not need to format text all the time, it’s a great tool for when you want to make certain messages pop.

Just remember, while you can send formatted text on mobile, it only displays in the styled format on Messenger’s web version. Give these tips a try next time you want to add some flair to your Facebook messages!