It can be a jungle in the online dating world, so once you are in it, it will pay to know how to survive and have fun. Here are five important things you should know.

1. A woman likes to be called by the online name she uses. You might think it sounds cool to call her Babe, Sexy or any number of other titles, but this will turn her off you quicker than a bucket of iced water. A woman likes to think you will respect her, so if you start by not respecting her enough to use her name, you won't get past the first email. Be polite and respectful, but not stiff and formal. You can be polite and easygoing too.

2. Likewise, sexual innuendo is definitely not cool. You risk being banned by the site if you persist in this sort of email. Not to mention losing the interest of that person you thought you'd like to get to know. Not every woman is obsessed with sex, as much as most men like to think otherwise. Into sexual aggression? Forget it. Women want respect, not caveman stuff. Harassment? It's not worth the bother. Find someone who is willing to date you; don't go after someone who does not like the sound of your profile. You can't please everyone. It's not the end of the world if your date wants to end it.

3. Watch out for those man-eaters. There are some out there. If a woman asks you for money, do not come to the party no matter how desperate she sounds. Some women may only want you for your money, so it's a good idea not to brag about how much you've got - at least not until you get to know her a bit better. In fact, don't brag about anything; not sporting achievements, money, or other relationships.

4. Answer questions, but ask some yourself. This is what she calls 'communicating'. Read her profile properly and use it to ask questions aimed at finding out more about her. If she likes to travel, ask about the places she has been to. If she has a hobby or a sport, then ask about them. Be really interested in her life, not just her looks. If you know little about one of her interests, try to find out about it so you can converse with intelligence.

5. Be honest. If you end up meeting this person and you've been less than honest with your photo or anything else about yourself, it will be sure to come back to haunt you and may spoil what could have been a beautiful relationship.