How do I insert images in my messages?

You've probably seen a lot of people using images and pictures in their message board posts. Often these images can make it easier for people to understand and help you through the problem. Like they say... a picture is worth a thousand words.

How do you insert your own images? The short answer is to use imageshack.us or another free image hosting service to upload your images. Then click the Img button to insert an image. Just type the image address in between [img] and [/img] and the picture will be displayed when you post your message.

Did that sound a little confusing? Here's the long way, step by step.

Step 1: Get your diagram into the computer somehow.

There are many ways to get your diagram into a digital format (a file on the computer). You can use an image editing program on your computer (like MS Paint, Paint Shop Pro, Photoshop, etc.) to draw the diagram and save the image on your computer. Alternatively, you can scan the diagram from your textbook, or take a picture of it with a digital camera. You would then use the software that came with your scanner or digital camera to copy the image onto your computer.

Step 2: Upload the image to the internet.

In order for people around the world to be able to see your image, you will have to upload it to a server somewhere. If you have a personal website already you probably know how to do this. Otherwise you can use a free photo or image hosting service online. Some of the most popular are ImageShack and TinyImage. To use Imageshack, just go to www.Imageshack.us and follow the directions. All you have to do is find the file on your local computer and then click Host it:

Step 3: Insert the image into your post.

Now that your image is online, you just have to add it into your post on the message boards. To do this, you click the Img button and then type the image address. Finally, click Img to close the "tags" and then post the message.

When you click Img you will see the letters [Img] appear in your message. This is where you type the address of your image.

Now all you have to do is submit the post and your image will appear.

Also note that if you use Imageshack you can use the forum code they provide. This includes the img tags automatically.