# Resize the compose box

When composing a long message, it can be helpful to expand the compose
box to display more text and avoid distractions. Note that the compose
box also stretches automatically when you type a long message.

## Expand the compose box

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{!start-composing.md!}

1. Click on the **<i class="zulip-icon zulip-icon-expand-diagonal"></i> icon** in the top
   right corner of the compose box, which is visible on hovering over the compose box.

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## Collapse the compose box

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1. With the compose box in the expanded state, click on the **<i class="zulip-icon
   zulip-icon-collapse-diagonal"></i> icon** in the top right corner of the compose box,
   which is visible on hovering over the compose box.

{end_tabs}

## Stretch the compose box

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{!start-composing.md!}

1. Click and drag the bottom right corner of the compose box.

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## Related articles

* [Open the compose box](/help/open-the-compose-box)
* [Preview messages before sending](/help/preview-your-message-before-sending)
* [Mastering the compose box](/help/mastering-the-compose-box)