If you use Twitter or publish an e-newsletter, you’ll definitely need to shorten the URLs (Web page addresses) you link to. Because Twitter limits each micro-post (called a “tweet”) to 140 characters, and URLs are often 40+ characters, using a URL compression service is essential.

Same with e-newsletters. If your URL extends beyond one line, many e-newsletter services break the link, which requires the reader to manually copy and paste the link into their browser. Short URLs make it easier for the user to click directly to the recommended page.

Here are several free URL shortening services to try:

• XR.COM -  You can even customize your URL.

• bit.ly – Offers multiple features, including the ability to post directly to Twitter and Twitter stats reporting. Very user-friendly.

• TinyURL.com – I usually use this one and am satisfied with its ease of use, but I might try some others, just for fun.

• is.gd – Also works great – I plan to use this service more often.

• urlShort – A no-brainer to use.

• Tr.im – If you use FireFox, Safari or Opera, you can drag and drop their bookmarklet to your browser bar. There’s also a Firefox extension or dashboard Widget you can download.

• Tweetburner – If you have a Twurl account, you can share the link to Twitter and Friendfeed.

If you use WordPress, here are a couple of plug-ins that shrink URLs while maintaining your domain name within the shrunken version:

• Short URL Plugin
• WP-Chunk

Dig Deeper:

• When—and How—to Compress URLs