When contemplating this question, it might occur to you eventually that dating could actually be both. After all, teenagers and those in their adult years have gone through this rite of passage called dating, and this is a natural activity, just as social interaction is part of every person's life.

While all our actions go through the cause and effect wheel, there's no reason why you shouldn't enjoy a good date as much as your next-door neighbor.

There are probably a lot of questions in your mind -should you be a first-timer teen, or someone who's gone back to the dating pool -regarding dating. But don't fret! Here are some basic pointers on how to go about dating the hassle-free way:

Contemplate your reasons.

Just why are you deciding to whirl into the world of dating? It could be that you are looking for that special someone, make new friends and acquaintances, get intimate with someone, or simply experience what it's like to date. You could even be doing it for more complicated reasons -to try to forget your ex, find someone to marry, to hook up with that person you've been attracted to for years. Whatever the reason is, just make sure that it still borders on the healthy and positive. Date for the right reasons, reasons that will enrich your life and let you have fun. Most all, do it for yourself, and not just because you are being pressured into doing it.

Find your prospects.

If you've already gone through the first tip, then we're already in business! The good news is, this dating step is relatively easier. The advent of the world wide web has ensured that you can go online and sign up for dating and matching services in a matter of minutes. You'll find that there are quite a lot of people out there who are also looking for people to meet, date and have fun with.

Prep up your online profile and advertise, advertise, and advertise some more! Chances are, after wading through all the email from your prospective dates, you'll have quite a handful that you will want to meet up with. And if you're not an internet fan, you could also try the old-fashioned way of having your friends set you up with

The big "D".

It's finally time for what you have started to refer to as "The Date" -and you find that you're actually nervous. Don't panic. Things are about to get more exciting. But first, some practical dating concerns:

1. It would be best to set the date in a place considered common ground. This way, you have the security of being able to get away in case something goes wrong. His or her pad may be totally romantic, but make sure to make safety your first priority. There are still a lot of odd characters out there, after all.

2. It's also the best time to make sure you're clean and presentable. Even if you don't have the funds to splurge on that fabulous outfit, nothing beats over-all, good hygiene. Fashionable shoes can only do so much if you didn't even bother to brush your teeth. Dress as the occasion calls for. After all, getting ushered out of that fancy bistro for not following the dress code bombs out your date before it even begins.

3. Even before you start being charming to your date, make sure you extend the most gracious gesture of all, which is to arrive on time. This is one of the most basic dating etiquette you must adhere to. Not only does this ensure that you don't end up with a grumpy date, you'll also be able to let your date know that you put in some effort by being there on time.

4. All you need to be successful in dating is to be as courteous to your date as you, yourself, wish to be treated. From here on and after, matters would already depend on how you interact and, more importantly, if you two have any chemistry. But for now, best relax and try to have as much fun as you can.

About The Author

Frederic Madore is the founder of the http://dating-information-center.info website. Find all the info you want about Dating and online dating. (c)Copyright 2005.