Efficient texting

[clipperqb]

I'm using Handcent (recent convert from BB) I have a few shortcuts setup for frequent persons I text but wondered the fastest way to compose a text for a random person in my address book. Here's what I've done:
1. press Handcent
2. press top left icon for new message
3. press + sign
4. scroll list for contact
5. press check mark
6. press check mark to select mobile phone
7. press ok
8. press menu
9. press "end select"
10. compose text.
so, that's nuts. The other way I've tried is:
1.press people shortcut
2. scroll list for contact
3. press contact
4. Look at the 3 entries for "send message" (my example contact) and try and remember which is the cell phone.
5. press send message.
6. compose text

So I guess the second way is better but I'd rather not have to figure which is the cell phone and rather than scrolling to find the name I'd rather type first letters of name.
Is there a better way (must be)
Thanks!

 

[crimton]

or go to people>then select your contact select the option send sms

 

[reedlabotz]

in the stock messaging app you can press the "+ new message" button and in the to: box just start typing a name and it pops up. Thats easiest way i know.

 

[w0rdie]

Same works in Handcent, just start typing a name.

My gripe is that when you open a thread the compose box doesn't have focused and the keyboard isn't opened. I see its an option to start opened but its not worked for me.

 

[ShortBusHEMI]

even easier. open handcent.. click on compose new.. start typing name.. click on person u want.

 

[clipperqb]

even easier. open handcent.. click on compose new.. start typing name.. click on person u want.

I'm not sure what you mean by "start typing name"? after I launch Handcent and click compose new there's no keyboard, I have to click the + sign and scroll etc...

 

[crimton]

I'm not sure what you mean by "start typing name"? after I launch Handcent and click compose new there's no keyboard, I have to click the + sign and scroll etc...

you can search for your contact by typing the first 3 letters of their name rather than scrolling to the contact

 

[clipperqb]

Oh, got it. I was clicking on the + sign instead of the blank space next to "to:" to bring up the keyboard. Gotta get used to the virtual kb. Thanks!

 

[pattherat]

i add shortcuts for the people i txt alot. press down on a blank spot on a screen...shortcut...direct message...choose the person. it adds a small pic of them on your screen. click it and keyboard pops up. you still have to "tap to compose" which is annoying...it should already be focused so you can just start typing.
btw i just installed swype......it's siiiiiiiick.

 

[jbdan]

i add shortcuts for the people i txt alot. press down on a blank spot on a screen...shortcut...direct message...choose the person. it adds a small pic of them on your screen. click it and keyboard pops up. you still have to "tap to compose" which is annoying...it should already be focused so you can just start typing.
btw i just installed swype......it's siiiiiiiick.

+1! With sense and 7 screens you have plenty of real estate to do this

Swype is my #1 app by far and on the Inc it is a joy to use