Loops of email

The infamous "loops of email"!

A loop of email occurs when an email is sent to a group of recipients, and one or more of those recipients are also part of the original "To" or "CC" list. This creates a circular reference, where the email is sent back and forth between the same group of people, often causing confusion, frustration, and potentially even email server overload.

Here are some common scenarios that can lead to loops of email:

  1. CCing a group: When you CC a group of people, and one or more of those people are also part of the original "To" list, it can create a loop.
  2. Replying to all: When you reply to an email with "Reply to All," and one or more of the recipients are also part of the original "To" list, it can create a loop.
  3. Forwarding emails: When you forward an email to a group of people, and one or more of those people are also part of the original "To" list, it can create a loop.
  4. Email lists: When you send an email to an email list, and one or more of the list members are also part of the original "To" list, it can create a loop.

To avoid loops of email, follow these best practices:

  1. Use BCC instead of CC: When sending an email to a large group of people, use BCC (Blind Carbon Copy) instead of CC. This way, the recipients won't see each other's email addresses.
  2. Check the "To" and "CC" lists: Before sending an email, double-check the "To" and "CC" lists to ensure that you're not creating a loop.
  3. Use email filters: Many email providers offer filters that can help detect and prevent loops of email.
  4. Use a "Reply to All" wisely: Only use "Reply to All" when necessary, and make sure that you're not creating a loop.
  5. Avoid forwarding emails: Try to avoid forwarding emails, especially if they're already part of a conversation. Instead, reply to the original email or start a new conversation.

By following these best practices, you can help prevent loops of email and keep your inbox organized and clutter-free!