How can I set status messages in IRC?

How can I set status messages in IRC? A simple guide for learning IRC would also be helpful.

Solution 1:

The standard command is /away [your away message]. Then /away again to let people know you're back. I think this is a good start for learning IRC: http://www.mirc.com/ircintro.html

Solution 2:

You can do something like /away to set yourself as being away. For instance:

/away Not here right now

This will make it appear to others that you are away, and if they PM you, they will get a message somewhat like this:

Menopia is away. Reason: Not here right now

You can also use the /me command to denote doing something. For instance:

/me does something

Will appear to others in the channel/PM as something like:

* Menopia does something