# Starting a New Chat

## When No Chat is Selected

When you launch the app for the first time, or if there is no chat selected, the **New Chat** button will be at the center of the window. Click it, and select the type of chat you want to start.

<figure><img src="/files/CrOnd7JYrshJlzpJd8NL" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## When You Have Selected a Chat

When there is a selected chat, the **New Chat** button will be located at the top left corner of the chat panel. Click it, and select the type of chat you want to start.

<figure><img src="/files/DzZeJDv5W6Sv2BjCBPJc" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## From the Main Menu

From the Main Menu select **File -> New Temp Chat** or **New Chat.**

<figure><img src="/files/57CswUv1vL7FyPhyR9jr" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Using Keyboard Shortcuts

* **Cmd ⌘ + N** To start new temporary chat
* **Shift ⇧ + Cmd ⌘ + N** To start new persistent chat.

{% hint style="info" %}
To learn the difference between temporary and persistent chats, follow [this link](/chat/chat/persistent-and-temporary-chat.md).
{% endhint %}


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