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Dating apps for dummies: What the newly single need to know

If you haven’t dated in a while and find yourself thrust into the single life, especially in New York City, we’re not going to sugar coat it– you’re in for a rude awakening, whatever your age and circumstances.

Yes, you might get lucky and meet your soulmate while walking your dog in the park, having a drink with pals or dodging bed bugs on the N train. But since the dawn of dating apps, your chances at finding love out in the real world have decreased tremendously.

That girl you might have bonded with over a mutual love of quinoa at your local vegan restaurant? She stayed in and ordered dinner via Seamless while checking out guys on Tinder. That cute guy you saw walking down the street? He had a Grouper date set up before he ever left his apartment.

Ok, ok, it sounds bad. But before you panic and adopt another cat, hear us out.

While we also wish people were still meeting organically, there’s a reason so many are turning to dating apps. They’re quick, easy to use and, since you (hopefully) have an idea of what you’re getting yourself into before you agree to anything, they’re virtually pain-free. Maybe this newfangled dating culture is for you, and maybe it’s not, but you’ll never know for sure until you try. Here’s what you need to know before you put yourself out there.