Taking the plunge into online dating can feel like a big deal. Some of us find the idea of potentially meeting a future boyfriend or girlfriend over the net very easy to digest. For others, it can seem like something we're not immediately comfortable with.

The good news is that using online dating sites is an incredibly easy process, and it can also be really enjoyable.

We can't answer every question people might have about online dating here – and we're not going to deal with some important issues, such as safety, in this post – but here are a few of the questions that those new to the process might have.

How long will it take me to find someone?

Ah, this question is one we're probably all asking when we start any dating process.

And yet, it's one that we all know is almost impossible to answer. Some lucky people might be able to strike up a meaningful relationship with one of the first people they chat to on an online dating site. Others might have nice conversations with lots, over many months, without feeling like they've quite made a romantic connection with any.

The important thing to do is put questions of time scale out of your mind. Try to take things as they come. Love doesn't work to deadlines!

What sort of photo should I use?

Using several photos, rather than just one, works best where possible. One reason is that this lets you show different sides to yourself. Another is that – though appearance is of course not the most important thing – people will want to get a good sense of what you look like when they're chatting to you, and using a range of images helps here.  

Nice photos that show you happy and relaxed are a good place to start, but it's best not to use snaps with other people in them, partly because this can lead to confusion over who you are!

What if I don't think the time is right for a relationship? 

Lots of people come to online dating feeling like they're not sure whether the time is right to meet that special someone or not – but they're going to give the experience of using dating sites a go. That sort of open minded thinking is usually a good thing. You can easily find friends even if you end up realising you want to stay single for now. And you're totally in control of how fast things move. Even if you meet someone who interests you, there's no need to meet them until you're completely comfortable – or even at all if it doesn't seem like the right time.

What if I'm not sure how to talk to people online?

Not everyone likes messaging by the written word as much as talking face to face or on the phone. But if you're a little uncomfortable about your written communication, don't worry. Practice makes perfect and you'll quickly find people who you feel comfortable typing to.

If the technical side of writing is a worry, don't let this bother you too much. It's true that some people aren't fans of poor spelling, grammar and punctuation. But not everyone feels this way by any means. If it helps, why not spell check your messages before you send?

What if I don't know what to say on my profile?

Some of us find it tricky talking about ourselves. But remember that you're more likely to attract the sort of people you're interested in if you complete your profile with an accurate – and up-beat – overview of your interests. And, even if you're worried they won't excite anyone's attention, don't lie. Fibs are a big no-no at any stage of a relationship, and whatever your interests, you won't be the only person who has a similar set of tastes. ADNFCR-2867-ID-801744911-ADNFCR

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