Electronic messages are commonly structured in two primary ways: plain text and rich text. The former presents content as unformatted characters, devoid of styling such as bolding, italics, or images. The latter, conversely, permits the inclusion of formatting elements, embedded multimedia, and sophisticated layouts. For example, a newsletter with graphics, styled headings, and embedded links exemplifies the second type, while a simple notification lacking any visual enhancement represents the first.
The method of structuring digital correspondence significantly impacts user experience, deliverability, and brand representation. Richly formatted messages enable visually appealing communication, enhanced branding opportunities, and trackable metrics. Plain-text options prioritize compatibility across diverse devices and networks, reduce message size, and minimize the risk of triggering spam filters. Early email systems predominantly utilized the first method due to technical limitations; however, advancements in technology and user expectations have led to the widespread adoption of the second.
