Do u txt? Almost all teens do and can use a cell phone's keypad to send messages at an incredible speed. Text messaging is one of those things that until you do it, it's hard to see the value.

Perhaps it's time you give it a shot.

QUICK MESSAGES

Text messages can contain up to 160 characters and spaces. Most people use text messages to get a short message to someone quickly. Late to meet a friend? Don't have time to place a call? Send a text. Text messages are also handy if your calling plan has limited minutes.

Of course, text messages are also more discreet than a phone call. You don't need to worry about someone overhearing you.

SEARCH BY TEXT

Most people don't know that you can search the Web via text messaging. Simply send a text message with your query.

For example, "pizza 90210" returns pizza restaurants in that ZIP code. You can also find weather forecasts, flight information and driving directions. Or you can perform calculations and currency conversions.

The three major search sites let you get search results via text messaging. For Google, text your query to 466453. Yahoo's number is 92466, while Windows Live's is 95483.

These numbers can be difficult to remember. So add them to your phone's contact list for quick access.

THE COST

Cell phone plans often include a limited number of text messages. That includes both incoming and outgoing messages.

You'll be charged if you exceed the limit. Expect to pay about 10 cents per message.

Parents of teenagers know how quickly text messaging charges add up. It makes sense to buy additional text messages up front. For a few dollars a month, you can add 500 or more messages. If possible, spring for unlimited text messages.

The cost of text messaging can also be physical. Using a phone's small keypad can take its toll on your thumbs.

Reach Kim Komando at gnstech@gns.gannett.com.