If you follow the New York Times Vows section, you will observe a lot of meet-cute stories of couples who admit to having found love through an online dating app. A few years ago, this would have been unimaginable as many found internet dating an embarrassing pursuit. Also, it was a lot less safe to go online to find a potential date than it is now. The online dating field has become wider and better now, and nearly 15 percent of American adults have used online dating apps and sites.

Online dating has changed the world of dating. Although it has become easier to find potential partners, it can be a bit of work if you are looking for something serious and sincere.

Pick the right app or website

There are countless dating apps and websites out there. Some of them cater to those looking for a serious relationship, while others are for people looking for a fun weekend date or a casual relationship.

Create an honest and complete dating profile

Most dating apps and websites require you to sum up your personality in bullet points. It may seem a little awkward to describe yourself at first, and it can also be tedious to define likes and dislikes in only a couple of words. However, you need to know that online dating works through algorithms, which need detailed information to find the most compatible potential partner for you. The more well-defined your profile is, the better are the chances of finding a match. Also, if you make an incomplete or vague profile, it may appear suspicious, and your profile may be flagged.

Upload good photos

An online dating profile is incomplete without photos, and you should pick the right kind of photos to upload. Avoid putting up blurry photos or photos that are more than a year old. Although the number of photos you can upload varies according to the dating app you are using, most online dating tips for men and women usually recommend that you upload at least three photos—a headshot, one that involves any of your hobbies, and one that is funny or simply good-humored (like in your Halloween costume). Among these, at least one should be a full-body shot.

Don’t hesitate to be selective

You will be talking to several potential matches. You may click with some of them, and you may not find others interesting enough. Some may ask you out, and you might be tempted to ask some out. One thing to remember here is that you do not have to agree to go out with the first person who asks. Also, you do not have to go on another date with someone unless you are sure you want to. Nowadays, nearly all dating apps have a wide user pool. Just because you said no to one person doesn’t mean you will not find another match. Wait out for the right person with whom you get along well and see as a potential partner.

Follow safe practices

While online dating is fun, it can be risky as well. Often, people are tempted to create online profiles and personas that are nowhere close to their real selves. Also, some scammers and trolls somehow pass through all security features to create profiles on dating apps , and you should be cautious of these. One of the most helpful online dating tips to follow is to always keep a family member or friend in the loop whenever you decide to meet someone from a dating app. Choose a public place with open bright spaces when you go out on the first date. Also, as a general rule, avoid meeting at each other’s houses.

Go Dutch on the first date

It is good dating etiquette to offer to split the bill or buy a round of drinks on the first date. It doesn’t matter whether you end up paying or not, ensure that you offer to pay. Never leave it for the next date, because you don’t know whether or not you will meet the other person again.