If your Gmail inbox is overflowing with promotions and unwanted messages, Google provides three primary ways to clean it up. Follow this guide to master your inbox.

1. Using the "Unsubscribe" Shortcut

Gmail makes it easy to opt out of mailing lists without having to hunt through the fine print at the bottom of an email.

• How to do it: When you open a marketing email or newsletter, look for the Unsubscribe link right next to the sender's name at the top.

• What happens: Gmail sends a request to the sender to remove your address from their list.

• Pro Tip: If you don't see the link at the top, scroll to the very bottom of the email and look for a small "Unsubscribe" or "Preferences" link.

2. Blocking a Specific Sender

When you block a sender, any future messages they send you will automatically be directed to your Spam folder so they never hit your inbox.

1. On your computer, go to Gmail.

2. Open a message from the sender you want to block.

3. In the top right of the message (next to the "Reply" arrow), click the More icon (three vertical dots).

4. Click Block "[Sender Name]".

Note: If you blocked someone by mistake, you can unblock them using the same steps.

3. Creating Custom Filters

Filters are the most powerful tool in Gmail. They allow you to automate actions like deleting emails, skipping the inbox, or applying labels based on specific keywords or addresses.

How to Create a Filter:

1. In the Gmail search box at the top, click the Show search options icon (the three sliders).

2. Enter your criteria. For example:

   • From: To target a specific sender.

   • Has the words: To target keywords like "Sale" or "Discount."

3. Click Create filter at the bottom of the window.

4. Choose the action you want Gmail to take. Popular choices include:

   • Skip the Inbox (Archive it): Moves it out of sight immediately.

   • Delete it: Sends it straight to the Trash.

   • Apply the label: Files it away for later.

5. Click Create filter again to activate it.

Summary of Gmail Tools

Managing Your Blocked List & Filters

If you ever want to review who you have blocked or delete an old filter:

1. Click the Settings (gear icon) in the top right > See all settings.

2. Go to the Filters and Blocked Addresses tab.

3. From here, you can edit or delete any existing rules.