The time has come and you have decided it is time to give online dating a try. With so many people and dating websites out there, how do you what to do? Here, we will point you in the right direction on how to get the ball rolling with online dating!

1. Chose the best website for you — This might be one of the more overwhelming things you will have to do. You need to make sure that you feel comfortable with the site that you chose to find your significant other. The first thing to consider is, how serious are you about finding a significant other? Are you looking for a serious relationship, or are you just interested in casual dating?

The next thing to consider is do you want to pay for a membership, or use a free site?

We really cannot tell you which site is the best fit for you, but what we can tell you is that all dating websites offer free trials, which you can use as an advantage. Before you pick which site you want to stick with, the best thing to do is to try two to three popular dating sites like Match.com, Okcupid or POF -- find the one you feel the most comfortable with.

Note: keep your profile to a minimum when doing this. You can always add or edit once you have picked your site of choice.

Now, when it comes to paying for the features or sticking with the free version, the difference really is that if you are serious about what you want (whether long term or casual), the features make all the difference. The features will render a more in depth communication between you and potential partners. A free version is ok, if you are not ready for something to really happen and you just want to peruse what is out there. Once you decide you want to make something happen, you can always upgrade.

2. Begin (or finish) your profile. Once you have decided which online dating site you will stick to, it is time to polish up your profile. In order to get the best results, you have to be 100% honest. If you add fluff, you will come across as fake to your future dates. The key here is to be short, sweet, and to the point. Keep your answers short, but not vague; true, but not over explained; honest but not offensive.

Picking your pictures is also very important. Make sure you pick the pictures that mostly show your lifestyle, and are discreet. Do not show too much of your body, or too much of one pastime. Pick a simple array of photos that vary, and of course, that make you look like a good catch!

3. Edit your profile. Once you have finished your profile, go back and review it. Look at your profile as if you were a potential date. If there is something you do not like, change it. If there is a picture that doesn’t seem to fit, replace it. If there is an answer to a personality question that seems dubious, reword it. Make sure you send across exactly what you want others to see, and is totally you.

If you follow these simple advice tips, you will surely find that person that fits your lifestyle. Just remember, online dating is not always easy, but it is definitely worth trying, so be patient.