# Flag a message as a test

The test flag helps sort and filter messages that you create for test purposes, so that they don't clutter the list of messages bound for your external audience.

When you select a [Test Group](https://www.airship.com/docs/reference/glossary/#preview_test_groups) as a message recipient, your message is **automatically flagged** as a test. When you select any other message audience, you can **manually set the test flag** to designate the message as a test. The test flag is supported for the Message, A/B Test, In-App Automation, and Scene composers.

Once a test message is ready for your external audience, [duplicate the message](https://www.airship.com/docs/guides/messaging/manage/duplicate/) and make sure to change the audience selection before sending. You cannot remove the Test designation after a message is sent.

## Manually Set the Test Flag

When creating or [editing](https://www.airship.com/docs/guides/messaging/manage/edit/) a message:

1. Click  in the header.
1. Enable *Mark this message as a test*.
1. Click outside the box to close it.

## View Tests

See all your tests in a single view.

1. Go to **Messages**, then **Messages Overview**.
1. Select the *Tests* view.

## Hide/Show Tests

You can control whether or not you see tests in [Messages Overview](https://www.airship.com/docs/reference/glossary/#messages_overview).

1. Go to **Messages**, then **Messages Overview**.
1. Toggle *Hide Tests* to hide or show tests.