To build your email directly in the Email window, simply start typing in the text box and use the rich text editor options such as bold, italics, bullets, font, font size etc. (1) to create your message. You can also attach files and insert merge fields (2). Don't forget to include a subject line (3).

After you've built your email, you have the option to save that content as a template for future use. Simply click on the "add template" icon in the tool panel at the bottom of the email and click "Save as new Template".

To use an existing Salesforce email template, click on the "add template" icon in the tool panel at the bottom of the email. Then select "Insert Template" at the top of the menu.

You'll have the option to browse classic templates or lightning templates, simply navigate to the template you want and click on it to insert.

Note that classic templates cannot be edited in the email panel- if you need to edit a classic template, you can do so in Salesforce Classic mode in the Email Template folder. Instructions here

If you need to create a completely new template, using the email building method described above. Once you have the template formatted correctly, simply save as a new template directly in Salesforce Lighting.

You can ensure merge fields are working properly by viewing the message in the "Review" tab. Simply click on a participant's name in the menu on the left hand side to see the message formatted with their specific merge values. Note: All email sent in this manner will be logged as an Activity Record on recipients' Contact Records. Once you're satisfied with your message, click send to release the message to all recipients immediately or choose the "Send Later" option by clicking the down arrow beside the "Send" button to delay the send.