> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.dscout.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.dscout.com/private-panels/emailing-and-sms/how-to-send-personal-email-and-sms.md).

# How to send personal email and SMS

Communicating with panelists via email and SMS can only be done within a study. Hence, you will need to [add panelists to a study](/private-panels/studies/add-panelists-to-a-study.md) first before you can send them messages. You can create a study specifically for communicating with panelists, then use that study like an email or SMS list.

To send a personal email or SMS to a panelists, go to the **Overview** page of a study. Then, follow the steps below:

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Click the name of the panelists for whom you'd like to send an email or SMS to.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Their study profile will pop-up. Type your message on the textbox at the bottom of the right panel of the pop-up.

To add an attachment, click the paper clip icon. Your computer system's file explorer will pop up. Select the attachment.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
After typing your message and adding an attachment, if applicable, click the **Send message** button.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Select **Send Email** or **Send SMS** from the drop-down options.

![](/files/c90c1eaff60f3dd4a8562c32a44530a60df86eed)
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Private Panels was previously managed outside of Dscout, so you may see a different logo and URL in some places. If you have any questions, contact <support@dscout.com>.
{% endhint %}


---

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