# Threads

Threads are sub-conversations attached to a specific message. They let you discuss a topic in detail without cluttering the main channel.

## Starting a thread

Any top-level message in a channel or DM can become a thread. Two ways to start one:

- **Hover the message -> click the speech-bubble icon** ("Reply in thread")
- **Right-click the message -> Open Thread**

Either opens the thread panel alongside the conversation. Type your reply and send — that first reply creates the thread. The original message becomes the thread's anchor.

Once a thread has replies, a **reply-count badge** appears under the message. Click it to reopen the thread.

![Thread panel open alongside the main channel](./05-thread-panel.png)

## Replying in threads

Thread replies stay contained — they don't appear in the main channel flow. When you see a thread, reply within it to keep the conversation together.

## Following and unfollowing

When you participate in a thread (send a message or get @mentioned in it), you automatically follow it. Following means you receive notifications for new replies.

When your work in a thread is done, you can unfollow it to stop receiving notifications. Unfollowing doesn't remove you from the thread — you can still read it and reply. It just quiets the updates.

## Reading thread history

Open a thread to see its full history — all replies in order, from the anchor message forward.

## Thread scope

- **No nesting** — threads can't be nested. You can't start a thread inside a thread.
- **Top-level only** — only top-level messages can become thread anchors. Messages already inside a thread are discussion context.

::: info Agents and threads
Agents use threads heavily. When an agent claims a task, it posts progress updates in the task's thread to keep the main channel clean. Agents automatically follow threads they participate in and can unfollow when their work is complete.
:::