Introduction

If you are new to URL shortening, do not worry. It is one of the easiest things you can do online. In this step-by-step guide, I will show you how to shorten any URL in less than 30 seconds – even if you have zero technical skills.

By the end of this article, you will be able to create short, professional links for your social media, emails, and website.

What You Need Before You Start

You do not need any special software or coding knowledge. All you need is:

  • A web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, etc.)
  • The long URL you want to shorten
  • Access to a URL shortener website (like ours)

Step-by-Step Guide to Shorten a URL

Step 1: Find the long URL you want to shorten

Copy the entire web address from your browser's address bar. For example, if you want to share a product page, copy its full URL. Make sure it starts with http:// or https://.

Step 2: Go to a URL shortener website

Open a new tab and visit https://smalltrack.online/ (or any shortener you trust).

Step 3: Paste your long URL

Click on the input box that says "Paste your long URL here" and paste your copied link (Ctrl+V or right-click + Paste).

Step 4: Click the "Shorten URL" button

Press the button. In less than a second, the tool will generate a short link for you.

Step 5: Copy your new short link

You will see your short link displayed on the screen. Click the "Copy" button next to it. Your short link is now saved to your clipboard.

Step 6: Share your short link anywhere

Paste the short link into your social media post, email, WhatsApp message, or anywhere else. That is it!

Pro Tips for Better Results

  • Create an account: If you create a free account, you can track all your links and see their analytics.
  • Use custom slugs: Instead of random letters like "abc123", create custom short links like "my-offer" or "summer-sale".
  • Test before sharing: Always click your short link once to make sure it redirects correctly.

Example Walkthrough

Let me show you a real example:

  1. Long URL: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08N5WRWNW?ref=my_wishlist&tag=myid-20
  2. After shortening: https://smalltrack.online/amz-deal

See how much cleaner that looks? Your audience will appreciate it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Forgetting to include http:// – Always include the full protocol.
  • Not testing the link – Always click to verify.
  • Using untrusted shorteners – Some free shorteners inject ads or malware. Stick with trusted services.

Conclusion

Shortening a URL is as easy as copy, paste, click. Now you know how to do it. Start using short links today to make your content look professional and track your success.

Try it now: Shorten your first link for free – no registration required.