Dating apps are hugely popular. But what happens when you sign up is really up to you. A lot of people seem to think that dating apps don’t work. But it’s usually human behavior, not the apps, that makes the difference between going on a hot date and staying single forever.

You Don’t Have a Bio

No matter what dating app you use, you need a good bio. People aren’t mind readers. You don’t need to write an autobiography, but you do need to write something about yourself, what you’re looking for, and what you’re all about. Just steer clear from heavy topics like politics and religion.

Your Profile Is Ugly

Your profile photo is the first thing potential matches will see, so if you post a blurry and unattractive photo, people will ignore you. While you’re at it, be mindful of bad angles or filters that make it tough to see you. This isn’t the time to be artistic and abstract.

Your Profile Is Inappropriate

Your pictures could be off-putting if they’re too risque. If you’re looking for an easy hookup, pics like that could work in your favor. But keep in mind that a lot of people will find that approach intimidating and may simply skip your profile altogether. Keep your profile photo G-rated.

You Haven’t Been Keeping up With the Competition

When you started off, you had a pretty decent profile, and that worked for a while. But lately you haven’t had much luck. If you’ve been using the same tired photos from five (or 10) years ago, it’s time to boost your odds in the dating game by checking out what your (successful) peers are doing. You might not be standing out if these dating apps are packed with interesting travel pics, action shots and high-quality headshots.

There Aren’t Enough Women on Some Apps

This one’s datingranking.net/tr/christianmingle-inceleme exclusive for the guys: In 2015, an unofficial report came out that showed only 38% of Tinder users are women, which means the odds of finding someone who will swipe right with you are even less. It’s why a great profile and bio are so important. But what you do after you match with someone is just as important.

You Sabotaged Your Elo Score

Some dating apps like Tinder keep an Elo or desirability score. This is determined by the app’s algorithm, which uses image and text recognition software to bring your closer to your match. But if your profile and bio aren’t right, the algorithm won’t show your profile to enough people, possibly ruining your odds at a possible match.

You’re Too Darn Picky

You’ve been skipping people on Bumble, swiping left on Tinder, or passing on Hinge because you’re just way too picky. You’re not going to find the man or woman of your dreams that easily, so consider lowering your standards a bit. Plus, people are really bad at taking pictures of themselves, so make it a point to meet them face to face. You might be surprised to learn that attractive folks can take a crappy photo too.

You’re Not Trying Hard Enough

Don’t expect dating apps to do all the work for you. Don’t just swipe left or right, or scroll a few times and expect to get a match. You need to start a conversation with your matches and actually keep up with them. Many people seem to forget that people want to get a sense of who you are before they meet up with you face to face. So put some effort into the messages you’re sending to your matches.