Text processors are configured to shorten or compact text based on one or more abbreviation libraries or rule libraries. Messaging methods include such text abbreviation processing to reduce message length based on display properties or to enhance user perception. Message length can be reduced based on abbreviations in a standard abbreviation list, a user specific abbreviation list, or a combination of standard and custom lists. In some examples, text length is shortened based on stored rules. Mobile stations that provide messaging services include text processors that reduce message length and can be configured to process text messages prior to transmission or after reception. Text processors are provided in association with word processors and presentation applications, and are configured to produce shortened text strings. In some examples, full-length text remains is stored so that both shortened text and full text are available. Selection of text processor parameters can be based on a graphical user interface.