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Threads

Threads let you branch off from a specific message to have a focused conversation without cluttering the main channel. They are essential for keeping busy channels readable when multiple topics are being discussed at the same time.

What Are Threads?​

A thread is a side conversation attached to a particular message in a channel. When someone replies in a thread, those replies are grouped together and displayed separately from the main channel flow. The original message shows a Thread indicator with the number of replies and a preview of the most recent reply, making it easy to follow activity at a glance.

Each thread is assigned a sequential number within the channel (e.g., Thread #1, Thread #2) so you can reference them by number in conversation.

Starting a Thread​

To create a new thread:

  1. Hover over the message you want to discuss further.
  2. Click the thread action icon in the hover action bar (or select Start Thread from the more options menu).
  3. A thread view opens where you can type your reply.

Your reply becomes the first message in the thread. Other channel members can see the thread indicator on the original message and join the conversation.

Replying in a Thread​

Once a thread exists, click on the Thread indicator below the original message to open it. The thread view shows the original message at the top for context, followed by all replies in chronological order.

Type your reply in the thread's message input and press Enter to send. Thread replies support the same rich formatting, file sharing, emoji, and reactions as regular channel messages.

Viewing All Threads in a Channel​

To browse every active thread in a channel, click the Threads button in the channel header. A popover opens listing all threads with their title, latest reply, and timestamp. Click any thread to open it directly.

This is useful for catching up on discussions you may have missed or for finding a specific thread without scrolling through the entire channel history.

Thread Center​

The Thread Center is a dedicated hub that aggregates threads from across your workspace into one organized view. Instead of checking threads channel by channel, open the Thread Center to see all your active threads in a single place.

From the Thread Center you can:

  • Browse all threads you are following across every channel.
  • Reply directly without leaving the Thread Center -- type your response inline and it is posted to the thread.
  • Jump to the full thread -- click the thread title to navigate to the original message in its channel for full context.
  • Filter and sort -- quickly find threads by activity, unread replies, or channel.

The Thread Center is accessible from the sidebar and is especially valuable for team members who participate in conversations across multiple channels.

Thread Notifications​

When someone replies in a thread you have participated in, you receive a notification. This ensures you stay informed about conversations you are part of, without being overwhelmed by activity in threads you have not joined.

Following and Unfollowing Threads​

  • Automatic follow --- You automatically follow a thread when you reply in it or when you are the author of the original message.
  • Unfollow --- If a thread is no longer relevant to you, you can unfollow it to stop receiving notifications for new replies.

Deleting a Thread​

Channel admins can delete an entire thread if it is no longer needed. To delete a thread, open the thread view and use the delete option in the thread header. Deleting a thread removes all replies associated with it.

When to Use Threads vs. New Messages

Use a thread when your reply is directly related to a specific message and you want to keep the context together --- for example, discussing the details of a shared file, answering a question, or debating a decision.

Use a new message in the main channel when you are introducing a new topic, sharing an update that everyone should see immediately, or making an announcement that does not relate to a prior message.

Best Practices​

  • Reply in threads for follow-up questions --- This keeps the main channel clean and makes it easier for others to catch up.
  • Use threads for code reviews or document feedback --- Attach your review comments to the original shared file or link.
  • Check the Threads popover regularly --- Especially in active channels, this helps you stay on top of ongoing discussions without scrolling through hundreds of messages.
  • Reference thread numbers --- When mentioning a thread in the main channel, use its number (e.g., "see Thread #5") so others can find it quickly.