How to Decode a Personal Ad

If you take the time to open funny forwarded emails from friends, you may have recovered one about what personal ads really mean. While the jokes in the email might be simplistic, the truth is that personal ads do need decoding from time to time. Here are some things to look out for when you need to decode what a personal ad really means.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Be wary of ads containing no pic or vague info. While this may be a method that married or other "taken" people use to avoid detection, it's more likely an indication that the person placing the ad is too busy to complete the ad or doesn't take online dating seriously.
2. Question personal ads that are too long or too specific. Someone who has that many demands in print will be even pickier in person. The best personal ads have a few particular descriptions but leave room for spontaneity that will be fun to decode in person.
3. Consider descriptions of extreme good looks or sexual prowess a red flag, unless it's obviously written in a joking tone. Men and women who have lots of charisma and/or conquests don't need to brag about it. People who are desperate or have something to prove feel they need to exaggerate to attract potential dates.
4. Watch out for people who emphasize the word "soul mate" a bit too much. These folks will be too eager for a permanent relationship and may want to move toward marriage or a commitment too fast.
5. Decode the married ones. Put men (and the occasional woman) who can only met during day time hours and only have a cell or office number on the "possibly married or cheating list." Unless you are looking for a no-strings-attached fling with someone who's married, avoid these ads.