Dating in the 21st century is confusing. We have complicated ways of connecting that didn't exist 20 years ago, and much of our conversation with romantic partners happens over text message.
Comedian Aziz Ansari is here to help us out. For his new book, "Modern Romance," Ansari worked with sociologist Eric Klinenberg to explore how we date in the digital age. They talked with hundreds of single people across the world, asking how they connect with romantic partners.
Ansari and Klinenberg discovered the entire culture of finding love has evolved dramatically, fueled in part by the advent of cellphones and the explosion in online dating.
They also found that a lot of people have questions about texting etiquette.
Here are some of their tips.
Don't wait to send that first text.
After you meet someone you like, the best time to send the first text is that same day. It's better to touch base sooner rather than later, because it keeps the romantic momentum going.
That person already gave you their number, so chances are they dig you.
Avoid "heyyy" and make it personal.
"After seeing hundreds and hundreds of messages in womens' phones," Ansari writes, "I can definitively say that most of the texts women receive are, sadly, utterly lacking in either thought or personality."
Instead, reference something you talked about when you first met that person. Show them you actually listen to what they say.
Try to be clever.
At the same time, try not to overdo it, because sometimes sarcasm or offbeat humor can be a little hard to decipher over text.
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