1. In the main window for Windows Live Messenger, at the top of your contact list, click the Add a Contact button  .
2. In the Instant Messaging Address box, type the e-mail address of the person you want to add ( This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it ).
3. If your contact does not have Windows Live Messenger, then type your message in the space that appears beneath Personal invitation.
4. In the Contact, Personal, Work, and Notes sections, add any additional information, such as a nickname or birthday.
5. To keep contact information current, select the Subscribe to updates for this contact check box. To learn more about this feature, click Learn about Windows Live Contacts.
6. Click Add contact.

1. Double-click the contact (Your contacts are the people you have set up to communicate with using instant messaging. This may also be known as your buddy list.) you want to send a message to.
2. Type your message, and then click Send.

— or —

1. On the Actions menu, click Send an instant message.
2. Click a contact or group or enter an e-mail address, and then click OK.
3. Type your message, and then click Send.