(NAPSA)—While online dating an has grown in popularity in recent years, some may be surprised to find there are ways to make the experience even more enjoyable. Andthey’re free. This is important, since some sites charge as much as $1,000 a year without any promise that a member will find companionship or love. To change all that, Sam Ya- gan, mathematician, matchmaker and the creator of the nation’s largest, free, dating Web site—OkCupid.com—hastips for getting the most out of dating online. He suggests the following: When creating a profile, make sure to be completely honest about who you are and what youre looking for. Yagan says, “Be honest. There’s no reason not to. This person will eventually find out who you truly are, so be fair to the other person and yourself.” Post multiple photos of yourself that depict all aspects of your life to show people what you enjoy. For example, while one photo could be a shot of your face, others could be you out at a party, skiing, hiking, running, or playing the guitar—activities that express your personality. These active shots also provide an opener for the other person to perhaps mention that he or she is also an avid hiker. According to a recent study, there are over 100,000 marriages each year as a result of online dating. tions. Mathematicians will then use mathematical algorithms to analyze the answers in an effort to match potential partners—and it’s free. Once you’ve set up your in- person date, brainstorm a few topics beforehand to avoid any awkward silences. Think of a few hobbies or television shows that you generally watch. These can alwaysbe great icebreakers. Deciding whatto do on first date can be overwhelming, but the best bet is to keep it short and simple. According to Yagan: “We advise our members to meet over a drink or a cup of coffee. Once You could try a site that you've met each other and gotten to its matches. For example, at more adventurous!” To learn more about this free takes a more scientific approach OkCupid.com, members are asked to respond to a few simple ques- comfortable, future dates can be service, visit www.OkCupid.com.
