Social media has become an inescapable part of academic life.It has the power to transform scholarly communication and offers new opportunities to publish and publicise your work, to network in your discipline and beyond and to engage the public.However, to do so successfully requires a careful understanding of best practice, the risks, rewards and what it can mean to put your professional identity online.Inside you'll find practical guidance and thoughtful insight on how to approach the opportunities and challenges that social media presents in ways that can be satisfying and sustainable as an academic.The guide has been updated throughout to reflect changes in social media and digital thinking since the last edition, including:The dark side of social media – from Trump to harassmentEmerging forms of multimedia engagement – and how to use to your advantage Auditing your online identity – the why and howTaking time out – how to do a social media sabbatical. Visit Mark's blog for more insights and discussion on social media academic practice.