IFTTT, pronounced “gift” without the “g”, automates and manages repetitive web-based tasks. With IFTTT, no more cross posting, no more extra emailing, and no more backing up using cut-and-paste is required. IFTTT is a web-based service which creates chains of simple conditional statements, called “recipes,” that are triggered based upon changes to other web services such as Gmail, Google Reader, or Instagram, with one simple statement:

                               IF THIS, THEN THAT

Users create “Recipes.” These recipes involve two web apps, one app to trigger, and the other app to perform an action. There is no code or programming experience necessary to begin using IFTTT.

Using an IFTTT account, users activate the available channels. Each has its own set of triggers (the “if this” part) or actions (the “then that” side). For example, if a status update is made on one service (a trigger), IFTTT will ensure an action takes place on another channel to, for example, repost that update. Actions can be combined to create a daisy chain of triggers and actions across a number of services, so just one post could hit all the user’s Web presences.

The following are examples of what IFTTT can be set up to do:
  • Star an email on Gmail and IFTTT will automatically send a copy of the email to Evernote
  • Tweet with a certain hashtag and IFTTT will automatically send the Tweet to Google Doc
  • Update Facebook status and have and IFTTT will automatically cross-posted to Twitter
Recipes can be shared, making it easy to customize.

​Alternatively, IFTTT tasks can be created, shared, and have the resulting recipe posted for others to use.
Educational Uses
  • Have a class blog or several student blogs on blogger. Send new student posts to a Google Spreadsheet or Google Doc, which makes grading and seeing the posts easier.
  • Have students using a Twitter hashtag to communicate. Program IFTTT to send a text message whenever someone uses that hashtag.
  • Take a screenshot or photo of students’ work and have IFTTT automatically upload a copy to Google Drive.

Getting Started

  1. Create an account with IFTTT. Click on “Join IFTTT”.
  2. Chose channels which interest you, such as Gmail or Instagram, and explore how to create a recipe.
  3. Browse recipes created by other users for further ideas.
  4. Create a least one recipe to help automate tasks for you, your students, or your colleagues.