Some services like Match.com charge a membership fee, while others like Yahoo! don't. Even those that charge usually offer some kind of free introductory period. Each site has a little different personality. Some (often the paid membership sites) offer classier and more imaginative ads. Many have a wide range of ads from well written to crude. Be prepared to skip over some of the ads if you aren't comfortable with fairly adult language. If, after checking several supposedly appropriate entries, you find the whole tone of the site is wrong for you, leave that one and check into a different singles' site.

It's very frequent that users write in saying, "I never get any replies to my ad!" It's my earnest request that they sit back and objectively, at least once, scrutinize their Ad from a surfer's perspective. Human nature is no different online than it is offline. Spot an attractive face and you turn to take a second look...see a humorous punch line and you invariably stop to read. So it really boils down to whether you have put in the right amount of effort while making your profile because if you have not, then that's exactly the kind of replies you'll get – none!

INVESTMENT. Be it your time or money. If you cannot spend either or both, you really shouldn't bother because an incomplete, half done profile is like an uncooked dish, very unappetizing. Online Dating is all about making a good first impression because once someone clicks to the next profile, there'll be no second chance.

OPENING LINE. Splatter your profile with humour, drama, funky metaphors...as they draw instant attention and interest. You have barely 2 minutes before a surfer clicks to the next profile if not intrigued to read yours!

HONESTY. Lies can never be the root of a strong relationship; those based on it will eventually crumble. Being honest portrays you as a better human being which down the line is the only important thing.

STRINGS. A study of female psychology reveals that women seldom look for a ‘no string relationship'. If it is a relationship it is bound to have strings. Women of all description can find casual physical relationships without lifting a finger. To mention that you are ‘seeking a torrid summer romance' is fine and so is ‘I'm not eager to move in or get married'.

BE POSITIVE. And avoid negatives. This place has been provided to list what you are looking for and not all the things you don't want. Turn your own lifestyle quirks into positives attributes.

POST A PHOTO. It's an established fact that a profile with a clear, happy picture is 80% more likely to get a response. Don't use a photograph that isn't current... it isn't worth the rejection you will face later.

COMMUNICATE. It's important to come across as a progressive individual who seeks growth. Say what you think and believe in, and would wish the other to know about your personality. Talk about what is important in your life. Highlight your positive points as this is what makes a profile interesting enough to be read.

PASSIONS. Listing ALL your favourite things can be a handful... Choose one good example and talk about why you like it. Choose something that gives the reader an insight into what you enjoy. Interest them in learning more with a teaser about a fascinating thing about you. Ask a question for them to answer via email.

Display your personality in a tasteful way, take all the time to do a good job, and put up a good photograph. These itself will get you far ahead of the remaining anonymous pack.