We've condensed the most important information on how to use Slack right here. So whether this is your first time using Slack or you just want a quick refresher, you'll be ready to join your fellow students on Slack after reviewing the below.

Join the AWS DeepRacer Scholarship Challenge Slack workspace here.

For a full tutorial, visit the Slack Help Center here.

Slack Setup

The AWS DeepRacer Slack workspace is setup into two sections:

The top section lists your "Channels". Channels can be public (open to everyone) or private (invite only). Private channels are distinguished by a lock icon. When you join the AWS DeepRacer Scholarship Challenge Slack workspace, you will automatically be added to all of our public channels so you can connect with every student in this Scholarship Challenge.

The bottom section lists your "Direct Messages" (DMs). These are private conversations between 2 or more people. You can DM one person or start a group DM with up to 9 people (including youself!) DMs are best for quick conversations when you don't need the entire channel to chime in.

Slack Etiquette

Use these tips to help us keep Slack in order and make it manageable for you!

1. If you want to comment on somebody's post – Reply in thread! To reply in thread, hover over the post and click the message bubble icon. A sidebar will then appear to the right where you can leave your reply. By "replying in thread" instead of posting a separate comment, you'll make the conversation easier to follow and keep the main feed tidy and clean. 👍

2. Pick the right Slack channel for your post - Each channel has a purpose! You can familiarize yourself with the names of our Slack channels and their purpose below.

3. In addition to posting in the correct channel, please avoid repeating the same message, or posting it on multiple channels. Along these same lines, if you ask a question and it has been answered (or you found the answer on your own), it's good etiquette to go back to your original post to let everyone know. This allows your classmates and volunteers to focus their time and energy on students who still need help. 💪

4. Whenever possible, put all your text in one message (see also how to ask a question here), and please:

don't

post

every

sentence

separately.

Some people say that Slack can be hectic and overwhelming but by following these tips above, you'll enjoy Slack and get the most of your Slack workspace!

Messaging

• Unlike many instant messaging platforms, Slack actually allows you to edit and to delete your messages! Click the 3 dots (more actions) to the right to edit your text or delete it altogether.
• Notifications are the little number in a red oval that appears next to a channel or a private message. It's Slack's way of telling you that a post needs your attention because someone mentioned your name or made an announcement to the entire channel. You have the option of turning these notifications off (aka "muting a channel") if you find them overly annoying. If you do this, just remember to frequently check the channels so you don't miss a message meant for you!