Gmail filter setup
Gmail filter setup: actions, labels, and existing mail.
After you choose filter criteria, Gmail can label, archive, categorize, mark important, forward, delete, or apply the rule to matching conversations.
Gmail filter setup has two parts: choose criteria, then choose actions. Actions include Apply label, Skip Inbox, Categorize as, Mark as important, forward, delete, star, and apply the filter to existing conversations.
Short answer
Choose filter actions after the search criteria match.
Use Gmail filter actions for known senders, subjects, words, labels, and categories. Use KeepKnown when the rule depends on whether the sender is already in your contacts.
Gmail filter actions to check
- Apply a label when matching messages need a stable folder-like view.
- Skip Inbox when messages should be archived automatically.
- Categorize as when Gmail should send matching mail to a tab.
- Mark as important or star when known mail needs visibility.
- Apply the filter to matching conversations when old mail should be cleaned too.
Use the right filter for the job
| Job | Native Gmail filter | KeepKnown |
|---|---|---|
| Known sender or keyword | Good fit | Optional |
| Apply labels or categories | Good fit | Optional |
| Sender not in contacts | No native rule | Good fit |
| Recover unknown sender mail | Depends on rule | Yes |
Questions before you connect.
How do I create email filters in Gmail?
Open Gmail search options, enter criteria, test the search, then choose Create filter and select actions such as Categorize as, Mark as important, Apply the label, or Apply to matching conversations.
What does Categorize as do in a Gmail filter?
The Categorize as filter action directs matching email into one of Gmail's existing category tabs.
Related inbox workflows
Gmail filter setup
Let contacts through. Move unknown senders aside automatically.