Ah, Tinder. Love it or hate it, it has somehow managed to ingrain itself in our culture like no other. Similar to Hot or Not, you swipe either left or right on a person’s profile and then message with the people you match with. Even sometimes I find myself saying “I’d swipe him” to guys I pass on the street.

For the new and inexperienced, Tinder can seem totally creepy, weird, obsessive, vain, et cetera. For those who know how to work it to it’s full potential, understand exactly how hilarious and awesome the dating app can be. For those too scared to try, here is the “typical” stages of making it to a Tinder date.

1. Make a Fire Profile

You already know you’re hot, scream it out to the world. Tinder, like most social media is becoming, is all about marketing yourself. Don’t be afraid to let the fun part of your personality shine through too!

2. Start Swiping

This is (in my opinion) where all the fun is. Whether you do it alone or with friends at a party, something hilarious is bound to happen.

3. Match

Nothing beats the feeling of getting a match.

4.Messaging (bad pick up lines)

Tinder is not a bar, please do not try these pick up lines on me. Be warned: some messages can get a little creepy!

5.Messaging (good conversation)

Whether you find that match that asks you about something in your profile, or you two hit it off right from the start, nothing beats a good, old-fashioned text conversation where each party is genuinely interested.

6. The Successful Number Share

For anyone who has used the app, you know no matter how much they update it, the messaging feature is absolutely terrible. Usually when you’ve been talking to a match for awhile, one of you will initiate the “number share," which leads to…

7. Texting

Everyone’s favorite part of a potential relationship, the dreading texting/talking phase.

8. Asking Out

It’s the 21st century, if you like them, ask them to hang! Coffee, dinner, mountain climbing, whatever it is, be confident and your confidence will show.

9. Pre-Date Freak Out

I’m sure guys and girls experience this quite often, the nerves set in! You finally meet this person you’ve been talking to over the internet. Pro tip: be safe and always tell your friend/parents/pet where you’re going on a Tinder date. Catfishing is real, people!

10. The Date

The whole goal of this app, to go on a date! Some pretty serious relationships have started because of Tinder, even some marriages!

Tinder may not be for everyone, but give it a try! You never know who you may meet, and what it could lead to.