Radio psychologist Joy Browne came out with her first Dating for Dummies back in 1997. Now she is back with her 3rd edition that talks more about online dating and social networking.

Dr. Browne gives some great tips about how to navigate the online dating scene:

Be precise. Pretend you have to pay by the word when writing an Internet personal ad or filling out an online dating questionnaire, whether you actually do or not. Don’t blather. Be as specific as possible. What makes you unique? “No moonlight strolls, walks in the park, or, ‘I’m a true romantic,’” Browne says. “These descriptions of yourself are meaningless, overused, and silly.”

Use an appropriate photo. You don’t have to post a picture with your description, but Browne says the number of responses increases dramatically — like by a factor of eight — if you do. So:

• • Use a fairly recent picture. (Yes, you looked hotter on prom night. We all did.)
• • Avoid flattering glam shots. You want very little discrepancy between the picture and what you really look like. Women, don’t be tempted to be too sexy in your picture, because unless you’re looking for a one-night stand, you’re going to send the wrong message, Browne says. Same for guys -- keep your shirt on, she says.

Make your English teacher proud. Check and then double-check your grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Have someone proofread for you. Yes, this is from “Dating for Dummies,” but, still -- you don’t want to look stupid.

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