Q: How can I create a newsletter using an email service such as eGroups?

A: eGroups and Yahoo! have recently merged, creating Yahoo! Groups. Type in eGroups.com and you will arrive at Yahoo! Groups.

Online groups are online newsletters or email lists that enable you to share photos, discuss topics, swap files, and so forth. Most groups offer a free homepage, chat, message boards, and much more. You can customize these features to fit the needs of your group.

Before you use Yahoo! Groups, you need to register. If you've already registered, simply use your normal logon. In the left-hand column, you will see a list of your member groups. If you are not a member of any groups, you can join a group in a topic category that interests you.

To start your own group, follow these instructions:

1. Select "Start a New Group" in the center of your Yahoo! Groups page.
2. Enter the email address of the group owner. (If you are in charge, enter your email address.)
3. Name your group. For example, "My Group."
4. Enter your group email address. For example, mygroup@yahoogroups.com.
5. Describe your group in the drop box provided.
6. Select the primary language and whether you want your group listed in the Yahoo! directory.
7. Select membership type and whether you want a group moderator.
8. Press Continue.
9. Select a group category. For example, "My Group" could be listed under U.S. States > California > Metros > San Francisco Bay Area.
10. Select your profile and email address. This is how other group members will learn about you.
11. Invite people to your group by entering their email addresses, or select to skip this step.

Now that your group is created, you can invite more people to join your group or you can customize your homepage.