> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://v5docs.keyfax.biz/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://v5docs.keyfax.biz/script-actions/messages.md).

# Messages

Messages are what a script says: the self-help, the safety warnings, the confirmations, and the explanation of what happens next.

<figure><img src="/files/393Cvz18fQKAkCbjEC5v" alt="A message open in the editor"><figcaption><p>A message, with its code, name and content</p></figcaption></figure>

## Writing one

The **code** and **name** are how the message is found and referred to; the content is what is actually shown.

Databox values can be merged into the wording, so one message can name this caller's property, this job's reference or this organisation's telephone number rather than being written twice.

## The same words on four channels

A message written for a screen is read aloud on a voice call, and sent as plain text over SMS. Long sentences, bulleted lists and anything that depends on layout survive the first and not the others.

Rehearse anything important in [Test Voice](/testing/test-voice.md) as well as [Test Web](/testing/test-web.md) — a message can read perfectly and sound wrong.

## Testing a message on its own

The **Test** button renders the message with values you supply for its databox references, so you can see the finished wording without running a whole conversation. It uses the message as currently edited, so nothing needs saving first.