Five features used by online dating sites

Whether youve tried online dating sites or not, you probably get the general idea. People sign up, find someone they like, start chatting with them, and (hopefully) eventually find someone they like enough to meet.

But what does it take to make that happen? Some dating sites, especially apps, follow fairly simple algorithms. On the other hand, some platforms use complex algorithms and personality questionnaires to facilitate the most accurate matches. This is the foundation of dating platforms, but it's not the only one. Messaging features, search tools and filter settings are all designed to make online dating easy and fun. These features were designed to make online dating easy and fun.

Not all dating platforms have all of these features. For example, the search tools are far from universal, and there are several different filters that are used. Regardless of the service, each dating site has a different approach to its features - and it's up to you to decide which one suits you best.

The survey data seems moderate, as most teens seem to communicate with both acquaintances and strangers on the Internet. They are likely to be able to share their thoughts and ideas more easily than in the real world.

1. Social media integration.

When you're looking for a date online, it's always a good idea to be able to find out who he is, especially if it's listed on his dating profile. Integrating your social media into your dating profile shows that you are trustworthy to other users. Not only can they see how you present yourself on your profile, but they can check your Facebook, Instagram and Google+ to make sure you're not trying to hide anything.

2. Search tools

As mentioned above, not all dating platforms offer search tools. However, what is offered can be quite sophisticated - at best.

At one end of the spectrum are search tools like "vanilla ice cream scoop." This displays the gender, proximity and age of the profile in the search results. At the other end is a search tool like "all toppings please." In addition to being able to search by various criteria, you can also search for profiles by keywords. Looking for someone who likes Pink Floyd as much as you do? Just type in a keyword, and results will appear.

Most search tools aren't designed for keyword searches, but they can still be quite sophisticated. If you think you know, try to find one that shows results by ethnicity, religion, age, height, income, profession, eye color, etc.

3. Reasonable messaging features

Dont let dating sites tell you that you have "unlimited messaging," because then you'll get unlimited silly pickup lines. Instead, look for what Hinge offers. Instead of allowing all users to post, chat rooms are limited to users who are paired with each other.

Think of someone else's posts as a kind of currency. The more messages you create, the lower the value of each message. What would you rather see - copied greetings from too many people or a manageable number of messages from one user you are interested in?

Of course, you should also avoid sites that charge for posts or have a character limit. It might not cost that much, and you're not as verbose anyway. But it's still not much fun.

4. Filters to reduce unnecessary interactions.

Search tools can help you find what you want, but there are also filters. Filters on dating platforms can take many forms. Some are displayed as inbox settings, so you won't be bothered by spam, scammers or messages from profiles that don't fit your criteria. You can also delete old conversations so no one tries to get a meaningless second chance.

5. Security measures

Most people who use dating sites encounter a scammer or two at some point. In addition to scams, it can be spam, harassment by other users or people who just don't get the hint. In such cases, dating sites should provide the ability to block users and report accounts if necessary.