> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.blubash.io/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Send templates and quick replies in conversations

> Learn how to send Meta-approved templates and quick reply messages from the BluBash conversation view, including how to fill in variables.

BluBash makes it straightforward to send the right type of message at the right moment. Depending on the state of the conversation, you will use either a message template or a quick reply. This page explains both flows.

## When to use each type

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Message templates">
    Use a template when:

    * You are sending the **first message** to a contact you have never messaged before
    * The **24-hour window has expired** — more than 24 hours have passed since the contact's last inbound message

    <Info>
      WhatsApp only allows free-form messages within 24 hours of the contact's last message. Outside that window, you must use an approved template.
    </Info>
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Quick replies">
    Use a quick reply when:

    * The conversation is **active** (within the 24-hour window)
    * You want to send a **standardized response** quickly
    * You are sharing **frequently requested information**
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

## Send a message template

When a template is required, BluBash will indicate this in the conversation:

* A **yellow warning** appears in the message input area
* A **"Choose template"** button is displayed

<Steps>
  <Step title="Click 'Choose template'">
    Tap the button shown in the message input area.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Find the template">
    Use the search field or browse the list. Templates appear with a green "Template" badge.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select the template">
    Click on the template you want to send.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Fill in the variables">
    If the template contains variables (`{{1}}`, `{{2}}`, etc.):

    * BluBash will suggest values automatically based on contact data
    * You can edit any value manually
    * All fields must be filled in before sending
  </Step>

  <Step title="Review the preview">
    Check how the message will appear to the contact.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Click 'Send Template'">
    Confirm and send the message.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Tip>
  After the contact replies, you can send free-form messages for the next 24 hours without needing a template.
</Tip>

## Send a quick reply

<Steps>
  <Step title="Click the lightning bolt icon (⚡)">
    Find the icon in the message input area, next to the attachment button.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Find the quick reply">
    Use the search field or scroll through the list.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select the quick reply">
    Quick replies appear with an orange badge.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Fill in variables (if any)">
    The process is the same as for templates — BluBash suggests values and you can edit them.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Review the preview">
    Confirm the message looks correct.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Click 'Send'">
    Send the message.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Warning>
  Prefer messages with the **orange badge** ("quick reply") whenever possible. They have **no per-send cost**.
</Warning>

## Keyboard shortcut

Open the template and quick reply selector quickly with:

* **Windows / Linux**: `Ctrl + T`
* **Mac**: `⌘ + T`

## How variable filling works

When a template or quick reply contains variables, you will see an input field for each one.

**Saved template:**

```
Hello {{1}}, this is {{2}} from {{3}}.
```

**You fill in:**

* `{{1}}` = Contact name (e.g., "Maria")
* `{{2}}` = Your name (e.g., "Ana")
* `{{3}}` = Company name (e.g., "BluBash")

**Message sent:**

```
Hello Maria, this is Ana from BluBash.
```

BluBash suggests values automatically, but you can always edit them before sending.

## Important notes

* You can only send templates when BluBash **prompts** you to — you cannot force-send a template in an active conversation
* Quick replies only work in **active conversations** (within the 24-hour window)
* All variables **must** be filled in before you can send
* The preview shows exactly how the message will appear to the contact
* Once sent, messages **cannot be edited or recalled**