Commandment #1: Thou Shalt Post a Picture
Studies show that posting a picture of yourself on an online dating service greatly increases the number of views and responses you receive. People who don't post pictures not only get fewer views, but also make people wonder why they aren't posting a picture. Are they married? Are they embarrassed? Can they not afford a digital camera?

Some people may not post a picture because they don't like their looks. So what? How can you find someone who will appreciate you for who you are if you don't post a photo? But more importantly, if you are embarrassed to post a photo because you are overweight or don't like your looks then perhaps you should take time to improve yourself and boost your self esteem before venturing into the world of online dating.

Commandment #2: Thou Shalt Put Others Before Thyself
One of the biggest turnoffs to online daters is people who like to talk about themselves too much.. If you want to increase your attractiveness in the world of online dating, learn to make your communications about the person you are interested in. When mailing or messaging them, be the one asking the questions. People like it when someone is interested in them and you'll have more success by being that person, rather than the one labeled as an ego-maniac.

Commandment #3: Thou Shalt Read Profiles Before Communicating
This commandment goes hand in hand with Commandment #2. A big mistake many online daters make before communicating with someone they are interested in is not thoroughly reading that person's profile. As a result, the messages they send others aren't engaging and thus don't warrant a response. In order to be engaging in your communications, you need to read the profile of the person you are interested in and asked questions based on things they said in their profile.

Commandment #4: Thou Shalt Show Respect to Other Online Daters
One of the biggest complaints from online daters is how some people they communicate with suddenly "fall of the face of the Earth". Suddenly the emails stop and the person is never heard from again. Many times this could be because they found someone else they are interested in or simply want to try "greener pastures". Whatever the case, it is extremely disrespectful to suddenly cease all communications without an explanation. Before you stop communicating with someone, send them a quick email with an honest explanation. They will respect you more for it. In all your communications with others, treat them like you'd like to be treated.

Commandment #5: Thou Shalt Not be Crude
A big mistake some online daters, mostly men, make is sending first communications that are crude, use foul language, or are sexually suggestive. These type of communications are far too frequent and extremely ineffective in finding a date, much less a lifelong partner. Be polite in your emails. Showing respect, politeness, and being engaging are the best ways to get a response.

By following the above 5 Commandments of Online Dating, you can better enjoy the experience that has resulted in millions of successful relationships and marriages.