1. Time, time, time. Take your time filling out your dating site's questionnaire. If you can't spare those precious moments now, bookmark the task for later, preferably when you're well rested and can have a nice chunk of uninterrupted time. This way, you're fresh and really let your personality shine through.

2. Honesty, honesty, honesty. Honestly describe who you are. Don't describe yourself as 120 lbs. if you haven't seen 120 since your freshman year in high school. Guys, if you're bald, don't post a picture showing you years ago when you had so much hair, you needed a headband to hold it back (yes, this happened to me. And though bald didn't matter to me, the misrepresentation made me question everything else). If you're honest, you're more likely to attract genuine interest from others, which saves everyone time.

3. More honesty, honesty, honesty. Honestly describe what you're looking for. Everyone has preferences, and everyone is entitled to that. If you truly aren't interested in a single parent, make sure your ad doesn't encourage single parents. If someone who loves sushi is a must for you, state that in your ad. That will weed out all the non-raw-fish-lovers. The fact is, some things just aren't negotiable. However, on the same token, it is important to remain open minded.

 
4. Creative, creative, creative. Come up with a clever username that shows who you are and a great tagline, and you've got half of the online personal ad game beat. Instead of Jane1982, try Luvstoboogie if dancing is your passion. For example, my cousin used the username JohnGalt, in reference to Ayn Rand's "The Fountainhead." This way, when a woman mentioned the novel in her response, he knew right off the bat he was dealing with someone with similar literary interests, a key characteristic in his soulmate. As for the tagline, steer clear of the overused "SWM seeks SWF"-type. Something along the lines of "Han Solo seeks his Princess Leia" or "Are you my Lobster?" shows uniqueness and will draw more attention.

5. Spelling, spelling, spelling. Let me say it again: spelling! Please check your spelling and grammar. As mentioned above, your personal ad is the FIRST impression everyone will see. Unfortunately, if you're a poor speller, the fact that in real life you not only know what E=mc2 means, but can explain it in non-brainiac speak, won't show in your ad. You know your spelling limitations; take the time to double-check it (or have someone else do it for you) and you'll positively advertise YOU.

6. Smile, smile, smile. Keep your ad positive. We all have a sad story (or more) to tell. However, your personal ad isn't the place to discuss it. If you remain upbeat and encouraged about the possibilities, you'll attract people with a similar outlook. If you go on and on about how every guy you meet cheats on you, don't be surprised if those are the men who respond to your ad.

7. Photo, photo, photo. Ads with photos generate tons more responses than those without. Just as in "real" life, attraction is key in a relationship. Make sure the picture is current and truly shows who you are. Remember, if you don't want to be deceived by a 10-year old photo, no one else does either.

8. Fun, fun, fun! If the questionnaire asks you about your favorite movie and you can't choose between a Fellini film or "Dude, Where's My Car?", list both! It shows you have a serious side, but aren't afraid (or embarrassed) to have fun. If you've never been mountain biking before but (honestly!) would like to give it a go, mention it. Being yourself, showing a sense of humor, and being open to new ideas is a huge aphrodisiac.

By taking the time to honestly assess who you are and what you want in a relationship, then throwing in a little sass, with excellent spelling, chances are your great personal ad will find a great response!