How do I keep Twitter from automatically shortening URLs?

[jameslucas]

A lot of links I want to include are pretty short as is, and I'd rather people be able to easily see where I'm taking them. I've tried tweeting through BeTwittered, TweetDeck, and the basic web interface and I can't keep my URLs from getting shortened. Help?
I appreciate the depth of your answer; unfortunately, I've definitely had TweetDeck shorten URLs entered directly into the main text box.

[BodyByChocolates]

Since you mentioned TweetDeck above I'll take that angel.

On TweetDeck there is a main box for your message and then the URL shortening box. If you don't want to shorten your URL just put it in the main text box.

NOTE: Given the way you asked your question you are already aware that not using a shortening system takes up extra characters. What you might not be aware of is that in most cases you can drop the "www" but make sure you keep the "http" as that keeps your URL clickable which will naturally result in more people clicking your link.

EXAMPLE:
My website is Body By Chocolates. I see so many people give there link like this.
===> http://www.BodyByChocolates.com
That will never produce a clickable hyperlink. While the following will.
===> http://BodyByChocolates.com
And since that is clickable it will naturally be used more.

Oh yeah, also remember to tell your people what the link is about. If they know your going to be talking with them about healthy chocolate or whatevrer it is you do then they will be much more likely to check out what you got.

And never set your URL into your auto DM greeting. I'm betting next to no one clicks them from there. Get to know the person first. There will be time for marketing later.

Okay, I hope that was all helpful advice. Tweet @BodyByChocolate if I can help more.

The Body By Chocolate Man
TWITTER: http://twitter.com/BodyByChocolate
WEBSITE: http://www.bodybychocolates.com/xo/gs/endulge.htm

PS: It just occurred to me. When you place a URL be sure to capitalize strategically. I have 2 URL's above and left the website deliberately lower case. Notice how much harder it is to read my web URL than my Twitter URL simply because of properlly placed capital letters?

Okay, gotta run.