Microsoft Teams Quick Start Guide

What is Microsoft Teams? 

Microsoft Teams is a collaboration platform that integrates chat, video meetings, file storage, and app integration in a single workspace. 

1. Getting Started 

Sign In 

• Go to https://teams.microsoft.com 
• Sign in with your Microsoft 365 credentials 

Download the App (Optional) 

• Desktop: Available for Windows & Mac 
• Mobile: Available on iOS & Android 

2. Main Interface Overview 

• Activity – Shows recent mentions, replies, and more 

 • Chat – Direct messages and group chats 

 • Teams – Organized spaces for group collaboration 

 • Calendar – Schedule and join meetings 

 • Calls – Make voice/video calls 

 • OneDrive – Access shared files 

3. Chat & Messaging 

Start a Chat 

• Go to Chat > Click the New Chat icon (Resembles a pad and pen) 

 • Type a name at the top where it says To:, write your message at the bottom, and hit the Send button which resembles a paper airplane flying to the right located at the bottom right. 

Message Features 

• Format text with bold, italics, bullets. Click the format button in the area where you type your message. The format button looks like the letter A on top of a pencil.  

 • Use @mentions to tag someone 

 • React with emojis, GIFs, or stickers. Click the Happy face icon located where you type your message to select your desired option. 

4. Working with Teams & Channels 

Teams 

• Click on the Teams tab to see your groups 
• Each team has channels (e.g., General, Projects) 

Channels 

• Post messages, share files, and hold discussions 

  • Click Start a post to start a new discussion. 

•Type your subject and message and then click Post. 

  To reply to an existing conversation, click reply under that message. 

  • Type your message and click the send button which resembles a paper airplane flying to the right. 

  • To work with files, click on files. Files already shared with this team channel will show below. You can add a file by using upload or clicking the + New button. 

Private channels are only visible to selected members 

5. Meetings & Video Calls 

Schedule a Meeting 

• Go to Calendar > New Meeting 

• Add title, participants, date/time, and details. Then click the Save button at the top right. 

Join a Meeting 

• Click Join from Calendar or meeting invite 

 • Configure mic/camera settings, then click Join now 

6. Files and Collaboration 

• Go to Files tab in a channel or chat 
• Upload documents, collaborate in real time with Office apps 
• Use Open in SharePoint for more file management options 

7. Tips & Best Practices 

• Use @Team to notify everyone in a Team 
• Pin frequently used chats or teams for quick access. Just right click and click Pin 

 • Use keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl+E to search quickly 
• Set status (Available, Busy, Do not disturb) in your profile. Click on your name at the top right. Click on your current status to display options. Select your desired option. You can even set a duration for your status. 

Support & Help 

• Click Help (found at the three-dot menu at the top right)  

• Visit: https://support.microsoft.com/teams 

Download Word Version of this Article

Was this helpful?
0 reviews
Print Article