19 Dating App Hacks Every Right & Left Swiper Should Know

It's hard to remember a time, not so long ago, when dating apps were taboo. They were the apps you didn't talk about, turned off notifications for, and hid within a folder on your phone's homescreen. Now, of course, they are the norm. Open The New York Times Sunday wedding section each week, and you're sure to read cheesy stories about couples who have met on Hinge, Tinder, Bumble, and so on. All are uplifting reminders that you can find true love online in the same places that you can find a one-night stand — talk about the ultimate twist on a Garry Marshall rom-com.

Of course, if you are or have ever been online, you know that the experience is far from rom-com magic. You swipe, you match, somebody will message, and then the conversation stops. Or, if it does continue, it stays on screen and never leads to an actual date. And even if there is a date, you've probably heard people who found a partner online talk about how they had to go on "like, a thousand dates" before finding "the one."

With these challenges in mind, we've compiled the best dating app tricks and tools to help you get more matches, make your profile stand out, and avoid being catfished. Click through and swipe on.