What Women Say Makes the Perfect Date

Learn the rules and the secret codes to planning the perfect date from an expert: A woman. That way you're guaranteed to see your date again.

Observe the 4 p.m. Deadline

$Photo: Courtesy of John Henley\Blend Images\Getty Images$

As the big date approaches, women worry that they'll be stood up. This is why there's a 4 p.m. deadline. If you call at 4:20 to confirm the 8 p.m. date, I'll have already made other plans, just to protect myself from the letdown. Call between noon and 4, or risk being set adrift like a hard-luck astronaut.

©Men's Health

1 of 12 Photo: Courtesy of John Henley\Blend Images\Getty Images

Choose the Location Well

$Photo: Courtesy of Henrik Trygg\Johner Images\Getty Images$

If we live in a city, the first date should be closer to my place than yours -- so you can walk me home. You should reach the meeting place on time or a little early. If you're driving to my place, pick me up 5 minutes late. There may be a stray hair that needs taming. And observe proper car etiquette. Always open the door for me, whether or not your car has power locks. Pressing a button does not a gentleman make.

2 of 12 Photo: Courtesy of Henrik Trygg\Johner Images\Getty Images

Money Matters

$Photo: Courtesy of James Doberman\UpperCut$

Spending too much on a date makes me think you're trying to buy my affection. Or worse. I'd rather see evidence of your personal interest than your interest-bearing accounts. Special note: If you're spending more than $200 on a woman who isn't sleeping with you, you're a sucker. And she sucks.

3 of 12 Photo: Courtesy of James Doberman\UpperCut

Pay Attention

$Photo: Courtesy of Hans Neleman\Getty Images$

Girls spend a lot of time getting glam. They also spend a lot of time wondering if guys notice. Respond to my efforts.

4 of 12 Photo: Courtesy of Hans Neleman\Getty Images

But Chill with the Compliments

$Photo: Courtesy of Hans Neleman\Getty Images$

Give me a couple of sincere snaps -- but make sure they're thoughtful. If you say you like my smile or my eyes, I've heard it before. Say, "Look at that dimple," or, "Wow, you have great eyelashes." Now you have my attention. Compliment my intelligence, sassiness, or unfaltering talent for ordering the best guac.

5 of 12 Photo: Courtesy of Hans Neleman\Getty Images

Introduce Me

$Photo: Courtesy of Purestock\Getty Images$

If you stop and talk to absolutely anyone, introduce me within 30 seconds without using the words "my friend." Personal details are required. By date six, I should have met all your important friends.

6 of 12 Photo: Courtesy of Purestock\Getty Images

Don't Go All Donald on Me

$Photo: Courtesy of Bounce\UpperCut Images\Getty Images$

Unless a woman is a hopeless climber, you won't impress her with what you own (that is, if you own anything). Instead, let me discover what's valuable about you, not what you've bought.

7 of 12 Photo: Courtesy of Bounce\UpperCut Images\Getty Images

Notice What I Drink

$Photo: Courtesy of Altrendo Images\Getty$

Ask me if I'd like a refill when I leave an empty glass behind and head for the ladies' room. This makes you attentive and thoughtful. This makes me happy and socially lubricated.

8 of 12 Photo: Courtesy of Altrendo Images\Getty

Walk Me to My Door

$Photo: Courtesy of Image Source\Getty Images$

It's a scary world, and I want you to protect me. If you're welcome inside my apartment, I will invite you. Do not ask to use my bathroom.

9 of 12 Photo: Courtesy of Image Source\Getty Images

Kiss Me

$Photo: Courtesy of Betsie Van Der Meer\Getty Images$

If the date has gone well, lips must come into play. Even if it's just a peck. It gives me more peace of mind than you can imagine. Don't be discouraged if I hesitate to kiss you in return. I might be shy or nervous because I really like you. Or maybe you have bad breath. It doesn't mean I don't, or won't, want you.

10 of 12 Photo: Courtesy of Betsie Van Der Meer\Getty Images