A text shortcut inserts saved content when you type its trigger. In this guide, you will create a simple reply, add a changing field and test the result in your work application.
Chrome does not include an equivalent general-purpose custom snippet system. This example uses FillKit, developed by ToolClack. Button names below follow the English documentation; the interface also supports other languages.
1. Save a simple reply
Install the extension through the official link on the product page and open its side panel. Under Snippets, choose New snippet.
- Name: Request received.
- Shortcut:
;received. - Content: “Thanks for your message. We have received your request and will review it shortly.”
Save, then type ;received in a text field. The saved message should replace the shortcut. The first-setup documentation describes this route.
2. Add changing information
Edit the content:
Hi {Client name}, we have received request {Request reference}. We will update you by {Reply deadline}.
Non-reserved placeholders become questions during expansion. Use explicit names for the client, agent and deadline. {date} is a built-in token, not a question asking you to choose a future date manually.
3. Check the prefix
FillKit uses ; by default. You can change or remove the prefix in Settings. Shortcuts without a prefix expand with Tab.
Avoid common words as ambiguous triggers. ;documents is easier to recognize than ;d7.
4. Test the actual editor
Insert the snippet in a Gmail draft or your work application. Check line breaks, formatting and fields. Insertion does not send the message; review it before confirming.
If it fails, check that the extension is enabled for the site, the prefix and shortcut are correct, and the field is supported. Use the troubleshooting guide before deleting or rebuilding the library.
5. Add only frequent content
Create four more snippets and use them for a week. Add folders and favorites when they improve retrieval, and export a backup.
For choosing messages, read the repetitive-email guide. For several fields that need filling together, use the autofill guide.
