So, you’re ready to get out there. Butterflies, coffee dates, and first kisses—they’re all in your future. Dating apps are the tool of choice for 21st-century love-seekers, but they often get a bad rep. You’ve heard the stories: unwanted messages, ghosting, and bad dates galore!
But when it comes to apps, the problem is that most people are on the wrong platform. Looking for a thrilling fling? Then you probably shouldn’t be swiping through serious daters. Searching for your soulmate? That’s great—just be sure that your app is for hopeless romantics, not hookups.
Your perfect dating platform is out there. To find it, take our quiz below!
Questions Overview
- A serious, loyal partner.
- Interesting & cool people who I can vibe with.
- I’m open to anything, but honestly, I’m mainly looking for hookups.
- I want to meet someone, but I wish I could skip the ghosting and rude messages first.
- A romantic dinner. I want soft lighting and lots of sparks.
- An art show or concert—I’d love to date someone who’s into the same things I am.
- I’m down for a simple Netflix and chill night, but I could do something more formal, too.
- As long as my date is kind and I feel safe, I’m good to go!
- I have trouble meeting people who are ready for serious commitment.
- It’s hard to find people who I really like. Sometimes, I feel like I’m wasting my time.
- I hate jumping through hoops. I want: match, message, meet. Boom, done!
- Connecting online is just hard. Why are dating apps so frustrating?
- Grease
- Almost Famous
- Wet, Hot, American Summer
- Pride & Prejudice
- Ugh, again? I’m looking for something real, not another fling.
- I’m open to it. More importantly: are they a fun, fascinating person?
- Great! Their place or mine?
- I’m not against it, but are they at least trying to get to know me first?
- Ten minutes in, they started talking about their ex.
- They talked about their cellphone plan for 30 minutes in excruciating detail.
- Bad date? I feel like I always have at least a little fun!
- I didn’t go. They sent me a “U up?” message at 3 a.m.—I lost interest.
- They have to be as serious about me as I am about them.
- I want someone special. We should inspire each other and love the same things!
- I don’t want to say looks…but yeah, it’s probably looks.
- Respect, kindness, and adventure!
- Jesse & Becky (Full House)
- Chidi & Eleanor (The Good Place)
- Anyone on Too Hot To Handle
- Derek Shepard & Meredith Grey (Grey’s Anatomy)
- Anywhere! I’m more focused on finding them, not where I find them.
- Somewhere that indicates we have similar interests - like a sports game or a cooking class.
- Honestly, meeting them on an app seems super convenient.
- Anywhere but an app. And with more to say than “IDK” or “DTF?”.
- I’d wish for an app that knows me better than I know myself.
- I’d wish for an app that singles out the funniest, coolest, most interesting people in my area.
- I’d wish for an app that’s quick, efficient, and fun—no frills!
- I’d wish for an app that weeds out all the rude and stuck-up people.
- When they play games. Let’s just be real with each other!
- When they’re just not my style—I want us to be on the same wavelength, you know?
- When they’re looking to get too serious, too soon. That’s a red flag.
- When they’re looking for hookups without wanting to get to know me.
- It just takes a long time to find your perfect match! I’m patient.
- I waste all my time with people who don’t share my interests.
- Who says they haven’t worked? I’ve had lots of fun dates, and that’s exactly what I’m looking for!
- Either my match ghosts me or they’re disrespectful. It’s so frustrating!
More Quizzes
The Ins and Outs of Online Dating
Dating apps can be a great way to open yourself up to new possibilities in love and romance. If you’re ready to get started, try these tips below:
Make sure you’re ready to date. Signing up and swiping can be such a convenient way to jump back into the dating pool, but that convenience might allow you to jump in before you’re ready. Take time to decide what you want, and, when you start messaging people, make sure you’re upfront about your needs and expectations.
Take time creating your profile. Coming up with clever, honest messaging in the hopes of attracting people you like can feel a little strange. But it’s important that your profile accurately represents you, is geared towards the kinds of people you like, and is carefully thought out. Even though it might be a pain, take time to brainstorm the perfect dating profile for you.
Get a friend’s opinion on your pictures. When it comes to crafting an awesome profile, pictures might be the toughest part. Choose someone who knows you well and someone you trust. Show them a group of photos that you like of yourself, and ask them for their take. Which ones are perfect for your profile? And remember—the first photo is the most important. Always start with a solo picture; that way, no one’s left trying to guess who you are.
Put your best foot forward. The first message and messages you send someone are crucial. It’s how you’ll get your foot in the door and drum up mutual excitement for your match-up. Take a couple minutes to think before you send that first message, and choose a tone that reflects your personality—you might go with something funny, heartfelt, or intellectual.
Think of dates as an exciting chance to explore a new connection. If you put too much pressure on the first date, you won't be able to enjoy it or connect with the person you're with. Plus, your nerves might keep you from putting your best foot forward. Focus on enjoying and getting to know the person in front of you—but at the same time, remember that if it doesn’t go well, there are more fish in the sea.
Online dating can feel discouraging at times—but don’t lose hope. No one meets their soulmate immediately, not even with in-person dating. You may have to face a little rejection, go on some bad dates, and really put in the work to find someone wonderful. To give yourself the best shot at being successful, focus on staying positive through it all.
Want to learn more?
For more information about how to successfully and safely date online:
- https://www.npr.org/2021/08/11/1026705556/looking-for-love-at-first-swipe-heres-how-to-make-dating-apps-work-for-you
- https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2014/mar/18/online-dating-10-rules-partner-profile
- https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-love-doctor/201006/nine-key-tips-for-dating-online-safely-and-successfully
Reader Success Stories
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"It was good. It's interesting to know the results whether they are true or not but they definitely sound true. I'm looking for a date, that's funny. I definitely should stop but it was nice to fun to try."..." more
