a perfect date essay

The Perfect Couple release time, preview, and what to expect

By aysha ashley househ | sep 3, 2024.

You are cordially invited to a new murder mystery series on Netflix, and that's The Perfect Couple ! I'm personally very excited about this one just because of the genre, as well as the star-studded cast. And thankfully, the show is coming our way very soon.

The Perfect Couple premieres Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024 starting at 12 a.m. PT / 3 a.m. ET on Netflix . There's a total of 6 episodes in this mystery drama that has a wedding at the center of the story. But before we get to that, we know there's many of you global watches as well. So if you're not in the U.S., here's when you can start streaming the episodes. Check out all the release times below:

The Perfect Couple on Netflix: What to expect

The Perfect Couple , based on the book of the same name by author Elin Hilderbrand, is centered around the duo who's about to get married - Amelia Sacks and Benji Winbury. The Winbury family is "one of the wealthiest families on Nantucket," per the synopsis.

Though Amelia's future mother-in-law is not happy about the pairing, the "famous novelist" preps the most lavish wedding for her son and his bride. All is going well until "a body turns up on the beach" though! All of a sudden, everyone is a suspect. We shared the trailer below:

I mean literally everything about the description and genre of the series has me hooked, and with this star-studded cast? Definitely count me in! Leading the show are Nicole Kidman as Greer Garrison Winbury, Benji's mother and the famous novelist. The supposedly happy couple are Eve Hewson as Amelia and Billy Howle as Benji.

The cast also includes Liev Schreiber as Benji's father Tag Winbury; Dakota Fanning as Benji's sister Abby Winbury; Jack Reynor as Benji's brother Thomas Winbury; Sam Nivola as Benji's brother Will Winbury; Meghann Fahy as Amelia's best friend Merritt Monaco; Ishaan Khattar as Benji's best friend Shooter Dival; Mia Isaac as Chloe Carter, Donna Lynne Champlin as Nikki Henry; and Isabelle Adjani  as Isabel Nallet.

It's great to see Kidman doing more television roles lately, as well as Fanning. I love the versatility the two actresses bring and I'm really looking forward to seeing them in this new show. I also love Hewson from Bad Sisters on Apple TV+, so I know she's going to absolutely nail this role!

Will you be watching? I definitely will! The Perfect Couple drops Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024 on Netflix .

The Perfect Couple and 3 more Netflix limited series still to come in 2024. dark. Next. The Perfect Couple and 3 more Netflix limited series still to come in 2024

🚚 ❤️ FREE US SHIPPING OVER $20

Item added to your cart

How to plan a perfect date (10 easy steps).

Whether you’re trying to plan your first date with someone or you want to spend some quality time with your long-term partner, planning the perfect date can be tough. It sounds simple enough: Get together, go to a nice restaurant, maybe see a movie. So then why do we have so much trouble planning a nice, fun date both parties will enjoy?

We’ve created a step-by-step guide on how to overcome some of the obstacles that get in the way of planning the perfect date night in just 10 easy steps.

1. Come up with an awesome date night idea

The first step to planning your date night is to come up with an awesome date night idea. Ironically, this first step is sometimes the hardest. How many times do you go back and forth with your date or significant other? Does this sound familiar, “I don’t know, what do YOU want to do?”

Yes, sometimes figuring out what to do on your date night can seem a little daunting, but try not to overthink. Remember, the   most important ingredients to the perfect date   are quality couple time, spontaneity, discovery (learning something about or with each other), and connection. As long as those are present, it doesn’t really matter   what   you do.

That being said, if you need some help, we’ve got some ideas to help inspire you. Check out the links below!

Tired of deciding and want to plan a spontaneous date night? Try playing Date Night Roulette ( CLICK HERE for how to play).

Want to make date night fun and romantic, WITHOUT the planning? Check out some of our   date night boxes .

Want to plan a date night out? Here are some off-the-wall   date night ideas   that easy to plan and super unique.

Rather stay at home? We even have a list of some of our favorite   at-home date night ideas.

No matter what you decide to do, remember that a date is a time to either get to know a potential partner more, or reconnect with your significant other. At the end of the day, that is the most important thing.

Looking for some unique date night ideas? Check out these conversation starters and date night games !

2. Schedule your date (and stay committed)

Have you chosen you chosen your next date idea? Awesome! Now it’s time to put it on the calendar!

Discuss availability with your date to find out when you are both available. A day when you are both free for the whole day is ideal, but having just a couple of free hours works in a pinch.

For couples

An important part of date night is staying committed. Too many times, we let date night slip by until we feel it’s absolutely necessary. The truth is, having regular dates is a crucial part of building a strong relationship. In fact, couples that have consistent date nights are more likely to classify their relationship as “very happy” according to this report by the   National Marriage Project .

So, how do you stay committed when life gets busy? We have so many different obligations and things to do, it can be hard. We totally get it. That’s why it’s important to plan it out ahead of time. Choose a date on the calendar, months ahead if you need to, and stick to that date, no matter what!

Do whatever you need to make sure you remember the date. Create a reminder on your phone, add it to your digital calendar, or write it down in your planner. Heck, post it to the fridge or on the mirror you use to get ready! Anything you can to remind you. Yes, date night is THAT important to your relationship.

Studies show that if you pre-plan something out, add it to your calendar, and commit to it, you are more likely to follow through.

Also make sure to keep each other accountable. Remember that you are a team, even when planning for date night! Remind each other of your date leading up and make sure you are prepared for an amazing time together!

3. Create your date itinerary

If you are planning a more complicated date night with a lot of different activities, it can be helpful to create an outline of everything you’ll need to plan for to keep you organized. This is a great time to double check operating hours of the restaurant, movie times, driving times or distances, and anything else that is time sensitive.

We are a huge proponent of spontaneity on date night (that’s how the best memories are created), but we also want to help you minimize the stress. Your planned date night doesn’t need to   perfectly   timed out, but showing up late for the movie or realizing the restaurant you want to go to isn’t open that day can be a bummer and take away from the most important part of date night, that quality time you spend together. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

4. Check weather and gather everything needed

Much like our previous step, being prepared can help you forego any stressful events that can arise.

Checking the weather if you are doing a night out can be crucial. It may not seem like that big of a deal, but stuck in the freezing cold without a sweater can be a date night killer. Or trapped in a long-sleeve shirt when it’s 100 degrees out? Yuck!

You also want to make sure you have all the items you need for your date. For example, are you going on a hike? Make sure you have the right shoes.   Going to the beach ? Make sure to bring sunscreen and a towel!

Creating a checklist ahead of your date and then double checking it again the day of is a great way to stay prepared. You want to make sure nothing takes away from the time you want to spend together. Your focus should not be on whether or not you are going to get blisters from your hike or if you are going to get burnt from the sun, it should be on having a good time with the person you are with. Being prepared will help that.

5. Plan out the logistics (including babysitter if you’re a parent)

Make sure you plan out the logistics the day of your date. Will you be taking a car or will you be using a ride share service? Do you need a babysitter for the little one(s)? When do you need to leave? When will you get home?

Answering these questions ahead of time will help your date experience run smoothly and can help prevent any hiccups. Especially when it comes to babysitting. Have a backup sitter or call up a family member, just in case the first is unable to watch the kids. Stay prepared and have a backup plan so you can make sure you stay committed to your date.

You can always subscribe to Crated with Love. Our   monthly date night boxes   are pre-planned, don’t require a babysitter,   and   start at less than $30 a month! Just saying. 🙂

6. Stay spontaneous

Okay, everything is planned out and you both are ready to have an amazing date! Woo! The next few steps are things to think about before your date to help maximize your time together.

The first thing to think about is making sure you leave some flexibility for spontaneity. Yes, having everything planned out can keep things smooth and allow more time to be spent together, but those spontaneous moments can lead to the best memories together.

While out on your date, look for those moments. See a photo booth? Jump in and take some wacky photos together! Notice a new ice cream place neither of you have tried? Go grab a scoop!

Those spontaneous moments lead to what we call   discovery . Discovery is the act of learning something new about your partner or creating new experiences with each other. It doesn’t matter if this is your first date or you’ve been together for 50 years, there is always something new to learn. These discovery moments help inspire that learning that creates a strong bond and foundation for a new relationship. They can also help break the monotony couples fall into in their relationships.

7. Find ways to engage with each other

When spending time together, make sure you stay engaged. The worst thing you can do is go through all this planning and then spend all your time on your phone or making small talk neither of you are truly interested in.

Keeping with that theme of discovery, find ways to interact and engage with each other. For example, if you are heading out to a restaurant, try coming up with some unique conversation starters to ask each other. You can check out some of our   outrageous conversation starters   for a little help and inspiration.

As we mentioned earlier, the most important part of a date is one-on-one interaction, so planning a date night that doesn’t have any engagement defeats the purpose.

8. Focus on the one-on-one time (AKA put away the phones)

The best part about an awesome date night is that quality time. So, to maximize that time together, eliminate all distractions. Put the phone on silent, or better yet, turn it off (If you don’t need it for emergencies, of course).

If you need to, preemptively clear out anything that needs to be taken care of. Answer all your emails, send off any texts, and tie up your work stuff   before   your date. That way, you can place all your focus on that one-on-one time with your date.

If you are going out to a restaurant, make sure you stay away from the TVs! Again, to make sure your date night is successful, eliminate distractions. Even just the announcers and people cheering in the background can take away from the moment.

Getting rid of the things that cause us to alter our attention away from our date or partner shows you are more invested in them. Even if only for a few minutes, that dedicated focus can be so powerful in helping you both connect with each other.

9. Collect memories to reminisce upon

Don’t forget to collect memories! Whether it’s a photo of you both, a little souvenir, or some other memento, having something to look back on can help remind you of those feelings and help inspire you to plan your next date night!

So many times, we let life go by and do not stop to remember those wonderful times with our significant others. Collecting those memories along the way can help you and your partner tangibly experience your journey together. For couples, keep those butterflies alive! And if you’re just getting started on your relationship, start creating those memories now! You’ll be glad to have them years down the road when you can look back on them and smile.

10. Plan your next date night!

So, you’ve just had an amazing date night together. What next? Plan the next one!

After the first date

Does your date sound like someone you could be in a relationship with? If so, do you want a second date with this person? End the date by discussing what next steps you both want. If they both agree with going forward, start making plans for a second date. Find another day you are both free again. By this point, you should know your date better than you did before. Use this to come up with another idea for a date you would both enjoy.

For couples in committed relationships

Date night is not a “once in a blue moon” event. To consistently strengthen your relationship, you need to invest in date night. What better way to do that than to plan the next one right after your time together?

How many date nights you plan is entirely up to you. We know that life gets hectic and those moments alone don’t come very often, but they are worth the dedication.

We suggest planning at least one night to reconnect per month. And no, we aren’t talking Netflix and chill. We are talking intimate, one-on-one time where you and your partner can laugh, talk, and connect on a deeper level, free from distractions.

Need a little extra help with date night?

If you are looking for a fun, unique, simple, and affordable way to plan your monthly date nights, we encourage you to check out our   date night boxes . For less than $30 a month (Yes, that’s less than snacks ALONE at the movies), you and your partner will receive a date box filled with games and activities that help you laugh together and grow closer to one another. With each box, you’ll receive a new theme and a new adventure! We plan everything and provide you with everything you need. All you have to do is enjoy that time together! Click below to learn more.

Happy Dating!

Get your date nights delivered!

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
• Opens in a new window.

Would you like to explore a topic?

• LEARNING OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL

Or read some of our popular articles?

Free downloadable english gcse past papers with mark scheme.

• 19 May 2022

The Best Free Homeschooling Resources UK Parents Need to Start Using Today

• Joseph McCrossan
• 18 February 2022

How Will GCSE Grade Boundaries Affect My Child’s Results?

• Akshat Biyani
• 13 December 2021

How to Write the Perfect Essay: A Step-By-Step Guide for Students

• June 2, 2022

• What is an essay? 

What makes a good essay?

Typical essay structure, 7 steps to writing a good essay, a step-by-step guide to writing a good essay.

Whether you are gearing up for your GCSE coursework submissions or looking to brush up on your A-level writing skills, we have the perfect essay-writing guide for you. 💯

Staring at a blank page before writing an essay can feel a little daunting . Where do you start? What should your introduction say? And how should you structure your arguments? They are all fair questions and we have the answers! Take the stress out of essay writing with this step-by-step guide – you’ll be typing away in no time. 👩‍💻

What is an essay?

Generally speaking, an essay designates a literary work in which the author defends a point of view or a personal conviction, using logical arguments and literary devices in order to inform and convince the reader.

So – although essays can be broadly split into four categories: argumentative, expository, narrative, and descriptive – an essay can simply be described as a focused piece of writing designed to inform or persuade. 🤔

The purpose of an essay is to present a coherent argument in response to a stimulus or question and to persuade the reader that your position is credible, believable and reasonable. 👌

So, a ‘good’ essay relies on a confident writing style – it’s clear, well-substantiated, focussed, explanatory and descriptive . The structure follows a logical progression and above all, the body of the essay clearly correlates to the tile – answering the question where one has been posed. 

But, how do you go about making sure that you tick all these boxes and keep within a specified word count? Read on for the answer as well as an example essay structure to follow and a handy step-by-step guide to writing the perfect essay – hooray. 🙌

Sometimes, it is helpful to think about your essay like it is a well-balanced argument or a speech – it needs to have a logical structure, with all your points coming together to answer the question in a coherent manner. ⚖️

Of course, essays can vary significantly in length but besides that, they all follow a fairly strict pattern or structure made up of three sections. Lean into this predictability because it will keep you on track and help you make your point clearly. Let’s take a look at the typical essay structure:  

#1 Introduction

Start your introduction with the central claim of your essay. Let the reader know exactly what you intend to say with this essay. Communicate what you’re going to argue, and in what order. The final part of your introduction should also say what conclusions you’re going to draw – it sounds counter-intuitive but it’s not – more on that below. 1️⃣

Make your point, evidence it and explain it. This part of the essay – generally made up of three or more paragraphs depending on the length of your essay – is where you present your argument. The first sentence of each paragraph – much like an introduction to an essay – should summarise what your paragraph intends to explain in more detail. 2️⃣

#3 Conclusion

This is where you affirm your argument – remind the reader what you just proved in your essay and how you did it. This section will sound quite similar to your introduction but – having written the essay – you’ll be summarising rather than setting out your stall. 3️⃣

No essay is the same but your approach to writing them can be. As well as some best practice tips, we have gathered our favourite advice from expert essay-writers and compiled the following 7-step guide to writing a good essay every time. 👍

#1 Make sure you understand the question

#2 complete background reading.

#3 Make a detailed plan 

#4 Write your opening sentences 

#5 flesh out your essay in a rough draft, #6 evidence your opinion, #7 final proofread and edit.

Now that you have familiarised yourself with the 7 steps standing between you and the perfect essay, let’s take a closer look at each of those stages so that you can get on with crafting your written arguments with confidence . 

This is the most crucial stage in essay writing – r ead the essay prompt carefully and understand the question. Highlight the keywords – like ‘compare,’ ‘contrast’ ‘discuss,’ ‘explain’ or ‘evaluate’ – and let it sink in before your mind starts racing . There is nothing worse than writing 500 words before realising you have entirely missed the brief . 🧐

Unless you are writing under exam conditions , you will most likely have been working towards this essay for some time, by doing thorough background reading. Re-read relevant chapters and sections, highlight pertinent material and maybe even stray outside the designated reading list, this shows genuine interest and extended knowledge. 📚

#3 Make a detailed plan

Following the handy structure we shared with you above, now is the time to create the ‘skeleton structure’ or essay plan. Working from your essay title, plot out what you want your paragraphs to cover and how that information is going to flow. You don’t need to start writing any full sentences yet but it might be useful to think about the various quotes you plan to use to substantiate each section. 📝

Having mapped out the overall trajectory of your essay, you can start to drill down into the detail. First, write the opening sentence for each of the paragraphs in the body section of your essay. Remember – each paragraph is like a mini-essay – the opening sentence should summarise what the paragraph will then go on to explain in more detail. 🖊️

Next, it's time to write the bulk of your words and flesh out your arguments. Follow the ‘point, evidence, explain’ method. The opening sentences – already written – should introduce your ‘points’, so now you need to ‘evidence’ them with corroborating research and ‘explain’ how the evidence you’ve presented proves the point you’re trying to make. ✍️

With a rough draft in front of you, you can take a moment to read what you have written so far. Are there any sections that require further substantiation? Have you managed to include the most relevant material you originally highlighted in your background reading? Now is the time to make sure you have evidenced all your opinions and claims with the strongest quotes, citations and material. 📗

This is your final chance to re-read your essay and go over it with a fine-toothed comb before pressing ‘submit’. We highly recommend leaving a day or two between finishing your essay and the final proofread if possible – you’ll be amazed at the difference this makes, allowing you to return with a fresh pair of eyes and a more discerning judgment. 🤓

If you are looking for advice and support with your own essay-writing adventures, why not t ry a free trial lesson with GoStudent? Our tutors are experts at boosting academic success and having fun along the way. Get in touch and see how it can work for you today. 🎒

Popular posts

• By Guy Doza

• By Joseph McCrossan
• In LEARNING TRENDS

• By Akshat Biyani

What are the Hardest GCSEs? Should You Avoid or Embrace Them?

• By Clarissa Joshua

4 Surprising Disadvantages of Homeschooling

• By Andrea Butler

Want to try tutoring? Request a free trial session with a top tutor.

More great reads:.

Benefits of Reading: Positive Impacts for All Ages Everyday

• May 26, 2023

15 of the Best Children's Books That Every Young Person Should Read

• By Sharlene Matharu
• March 2, 2023

Ultimate School Library Tips and Hacks

• By Natalie Lever
• March 1, 2023

Book a free trial session

Sign up for your free tutoring lesson..

Forgotten password

Please enter the email address that you use to login to TeenInk.com, and we'll email you instructions to reset your password.

• Poetry All Poetry Free Verse Song Lyrics Sonnet Haiku Limerick Ballad
• Fiction All Fiction Action-Adventure Fan Fiction Historical Fiction Realistic Fiction Romance Sci-fi/Fantasy Scripts & Plays Thriller/Mystery All Novels Action-Adventure Fan Fiction Historical Fiction Realistic Fiction Romance Sci-fi/Fantasy Thriller/Mystery Other
• Nonfiction All Nonfiction Bullying Books Academic Author Interviews Celebrity interviews College Articles College Essays Educator of the Year Heroes Interviews Memoir Personal Experience Sports Travel & Culture All Opinions Bullying Current Events / Politics Discrimination Drugs / Alcohol / Smoking Entertainment / Celebrities Environment Love / Relationships Movies / Music / TV Pop Culture / Trends School / College Social Issues / Civics Spirituality / Religion Sports / Hobbies All Hot Topics Bullying Community Service Environment Health Letters to the Editor Pride & Prejudice What Matters
• Reviews All Reviews Hot New Books Book Reviews Music Reviews Movie Reviews TV Show Reviews Video Game Reviews Summer Program Reviews College Reviews
• Art/Photo Art Photo Videos
• Summer Guide Program Links Program Reviews
• College Guide College Links College Reviews College Essays College Articles

Summer Guide

College guide.

• Song Lyrics

All Fiction

• Action-Adventure
• Fan Fiction
• Historical Fiction
• Realistic Fiction
• Sci-fi/Fantasy
• Scripts & Plays
• Thriller/Mystery

All Nonfiction

• Author Interviews
• Celebrity interviews
• College Articles
• College Essays
• Educator of the Year
• Personal Experience
• Travel & Culture

All Opinions

• Current Events / Politics
• Discrimination
• Drugs / Alcohol / Smoking
• Entertainment / Celebrities
• Environment
• Love / Relationships
• Movies / Music / TV
• Pop Culture / Trends
• School / College
• Social Issues / Civics
• Spirituality / Religion
• Sports / Hobbies

All Hot Topics

• Community Service
• Letters to the Editor
• Pride & Prejudice
• What Matters

All Reviews

• Hot New Books
• Book Reviews
• Music Reviews
• Movie Reviews
• TV Show Reviews
• Video Game Reviews

Summer Program Reviews

• College Reviews
• Writers Workshop
• Regular Forums
• Program Links
• Program Reviews
• College Links

The "Perfect" Date, and Why I Can't Stand It

Favorite Quote: "I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand. It's when you know you're licked before you begin but you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what. You rarely win, but sometimes you do. Mrs Dubose won, all ninety-eight pounds of her. According to her views, she died beholden to nothing and nobody. She was the bravest person I ever knew." - spoken by Atticus Finch, by Harper Lee, To Kill a Mockingbird

I have officially decided. My idea of a perfect date is simply spending time with someone and laughing and being myself, without all that romance stuff, (Hugs don't count, I love hugs.) For instance, a tire swing would be an ideal date, because they are awesome, and you can just play like you are a kid, without all the responsibility and pain and problems that come with growing up. It reminds me of that childlike innocence that sometimes I wish I had. But a "date", if I must call it that, should be something that is innocent, not overplayed. Not kissing in the rain or crying your eyes out because you are not with someone for 5 seconds. That's just weird,obsessive, and slightly stalker-ish; people CAN get restraining orders, mind you. I never really have liked the concept of dating, it seems like an awkward situation. The typical "sweet boyfriend" thing that you see in the movie just kind of irks me. It's too weird. People should be themselves around those they want to get close to. I wouldn't want a guy that would write me poetry or ride with me on a horse into the sunset. I'm from Texas; I hate horses, and the two experiences I've had riding them, well let's just say I don't know who decided that was romantic. And the poetry thing, it's cool to read, but for it to be about me? aah it just be weird. But normal people dating, like dinner and a movie: Why would I want to watch someone eat? What is so interesting about that? And what if you get nervous and spill stuff on yourself? No, no dinner. And a movie. If you're dating someone, don't you want to get to know them? Unless it involves going into a Justin Bieber movie and throwing water bottles at the screen, I don't see how it would be fun. I'd be too involved in the movie to pay attention to anyone around me. And why would I want to date to get to know someone, when I could know them perfectly fine without dating. I don't want to be one of those girls that constantly talks about her boyfriend all the time, and I have plenty of guy friends, so if I hung out with them a lot, who's to say my "Boyfriend" wouldn't get mad? Oh no, and labeling him as MY bf, MY this MY that, it's very possessive. I mean, guys are people too, not just objects of infatuation. Goodness Disney, I don't want to wait for some prince to come and save the day. I want to be myself, not tied down to someone who I will constantly have to spend time with, even if it doesn't seem like a burden at the time, you get disconnected from your other friends. I want some guy who's my friend and will be there for me and respect me, but dating him, no, too formal, too weird. I guess why I don't like the idea is because I can do the exact same things that I would do while dating (go to coffee shops, concerts, hang out) with friends, by myself (as opposed to not being single). I guess in a way it is different, but I mean, who cares? I don't want to be kissed. I've been there, done that. I don't want to live with regrets when I go my separate way, and he goes his. I like things that are fun, not serious, and I want to experience life so, I don't want to have to worry about anything. Plus since I don't like a lot of that cute romantic stuff I don't think I'd make a good girlfriend. I mean it's cute for other people, but for me? For instance, a guy at my school tried to take a girl to prom by dressing it in a tux, and telling her it didn't want to be by itself at prom, and then he gave her a hug, to which she responded by telling him that she was already going with someone. If I saw a bear in a tux, I would automatically assume it's James Bond and go on a spy mission... I wouldn't really think that the bear is lonely and doesn't want to go to prom by itself. (come on, James Bond has much cooler things to do(and has a bunch of spy women that can help him)) But that's for me, not for everyone else. I'm probably one of the only people that thinks prom would be boring with an actual date, but again that's me. Friends make things fun, boyfriends you have to be serious around, and paint your face up and straighten your hair and dress up, WHY? And the words boyfriend and girlfriend, they're titles, like murderer, or slave, or president, or mom. I never have really liked titles, so I wouldn't want to be called girlfriend. My friends have had more than enough boyfriends for me. Plus, currently, my best friend is a guy, actually two or three are. They are fun to hang around with, and it's awesome. They give me the respect and attention that every girl unfortunately needs, and so I don't really see a need for a boyfriend, but hey, this is my point of view, everyone has one. I know people that can't really go without a boyfriend. I've seen them go through heartbreaks, happiness, thinking they've found the guy they will marry to being disappointed again. It doesn't seem like much fun, placing your identity in a guy. I've seen people who have waited for a long time before they've had their first kiss, and all of a sudden the guy of their dreams comes out of no where and they are one of the "cutest" couples I've ever seen. And then there are people like me, who have dated, if you could call it that, in junior high and freshman year of high school, and have just decided that this whole dating thing has only been around a century, finding "love" and such, yet back in the day of arranged marriages people hardly ever got a divorce. However, growing up in a divorced home, and seeing friends get heartbroken, and feeling that way myself because I've gotten too close to my closest guy friends before, and caused a lot of pain myself, and losing close friends because of relationships, it's all disillusioned me. It makes me wonder why people equate romance with love. I've done things I regret, hurt people I wished I hadn't, because I've sought after that false form of love people call romance. Quite frankly, you don't need a boyfriend to hold you in his arms to feel safe. That is where I might feel the most scared. No, you just need friends, friends that will laugh with you or just be near you if you need to cry, go to coffee with you or be there for you if you need to talk, friends that will respect your values and won't push your limits because they really love you, they don't say they do to get something from you, friends that have earned and deserve trust. But no, I don't want a boyfriend, definitely not in high school, I haven't dated in two years, and I have another year of high school before I'll consider it, despite what anyone does to sway my decision otherwise.

Similar Articles

Favorite Quote: "True love does not come by finding the perfect person, but by learning to see an imperfect person perfectly." -Jason Jordan "I feel like I'm waiting for something that's never going to happen."

• 18 comments

Favorite Quote: play the music, turn it up loud, dance around, and drown out reality

• 101 comments

Favorite Quote: "Our love is like the wind. I can't see it, but I feel it." -A Walk To Rememeber

JOIN THE DISCUSSION

This article has 4 comments.

Don't worry about the paragraphs - it usually annoys me but to be honest I didn't even realize they were missing until I was finished reading! <3 ADHD mode <3

Yes, I am a freshman and I have to say the most annoying thing about other girls is when they have no self-confidence or belief in themselves at all. Our society is pretty messed up to make them the popular ones. I love being a floater, it gives you so much freedom to not have to worry what people think.

I love this! And love is not a word I use lightly. This is literally my exact philosophy, mostly on the subject of why freshmen girls are idiots. Said freshmen girls insist on trying to tell me that being "level-headed" is a bad thing...

Regardless, kudos for being level-headed, Texan, smart and funny! Even though you have no paragraphs, I really enjoyed reading this. :P

• Subscribe to Teen Ink magazine
• Submit to Teen Ink
• Find A College
• Find a Summer Program

Share this on

Send to a friend.

Thank you for sharing this page with a friend!

Tell my friends

Choose what to email.

Which of your works would you like to tell your friends about? (These links will automatically appear in your email.)

Send your email

Delete my account, we hate to see you go please note as per our terms and conditions, you agreed that all materials submitted become the property of teen ink. going forward, your work will remain on teenink.com submitted “by anonymous.”, delete this, change anonymous status, send us site feedback.

If you have a suggestion about this website or are experiencing a problem with it, or if you need to report abuse on the site, please let us know. We try to make TeenInk.com the best site it can be, and we take your feedback very seriously. Please note that while we value your input, we cannot respond to every message. Also, if you have a comment about a particular piece of work on this website, please go to the page where that work is displayed and post a comment on it. Thank you!

Pardon Our Dust

Teen Ink is currently undergoing repairs to our image server. In addition to being unable to display images, we cannot currently accept image submissions. All other parts of the website are functioning normally. Please check back to submit your art and photography and to enjoy work from teen artists around the world!

• Link to facebook
• Link to linkedin
• Link to twitter
• Link to youtube
• Writing Tips

How to Write the Date in an Essay

• 3-minute read
• 4th February 2016

You probably see the date written down (or displayed on a screen) dozens of times every day. You might even have to write it out yourself if you’re booking an appointment or organising your schedule.

Despite this, most of us give very little thought to how we write the date. In academic writing and other formal contexts , however, it’s important to use a clear and consistent format.

Different Formats

The most important thing to remember when writing the date is that, in the UK and throughout most of the world, we favour a day-month-year format (otherwise known as the little-endian sequence ). This can be presented in numerous ways, including:

• Day + Month (e.g. 21 April)
• Day + Month + Year (e.g., 21 April 2016)
• Numbers Only (e.g. 21/04/2016)

There are also variations to how these can be presented, such as using an ordinal suffix after the day.  These are the letters we’d use if we were writing the number out in full and are often written with a superscript font:

We last spoke on the 21st of April.

The meetings will be held on the 2 nd of February and the 13 th June.

Sometimes, the month in the date can be shortened to save space:

14 January 2012 → 14 Jan. 2012

9 October → 9 Oct.

However, generally in formal writing it’s better to use the longer format for clarity. Likewise, when including a date in an essay you should usually write it out (e.g. 21 April 2016) rather than use the numbers-only style.

Find this useful?

Subscribe to our newsletter and get writing tips from our editors straight to your inbox.

Check Your Style Guide and Be Consistent

Since there are various ways of writing the date, you should always check your university’s style guide to see if a preferred format is specified. If it doesn’t offer any particular advice, simply pick a clear format that suits you and make sure to use it consistently for all dates in your essay.

UK vs. American Dates

The other thing to keep in mind when writing (and reading) dates is how the US date format differs from ours. In America, dates use a month-day-year format, which can lead to problems when they are written out in numbers only as days and months get confused.

The US date format also places a comma between the day and year when both are numbers, as well as omitting superscript letters. The only time you would use superscript letters after the day in the US date format is when writing it out in full as, e.g., the 10 th of September.

You can see a few examples of UK and US dates below:

As you can see, the date ‘07/04/2016’ represents the 7th of April 2016 in the UK, but the same numbers indicate the 4th of July in America! Take care about which format you use when writing for international audiences.

The International Date Format

Finally, if you’re sharing information across the world, you may want to use the  international date format (ISO 8601) . This is a standardized format that works across borders, so it is commonly used by government organizations and global businesses. And it always uses the format YYYY-MM-DD, which removes any chance of confusion:

We sent the invoice on 2020-07-10 .

The date above, for example, denotes the 10th of July 2020.

Expert Proofreading

If you want to be sure the dates in your documents are always clear and correct, don’t forget to have your writing proofreading. Submit a trial document for free today to find out more.

Share this article:

Post A New Comment

Get help from a language expert. Try our proofreading services for free.

5-minute read

Free Email Newsletter Template (2024)

Promoting a brand means sharing valuable insights to connect more deeply with your audience, and...

6-minute read

How to Write a Nonprofit Grant Proposal

If you’re seeking funding to support your charitable endeavors as a nonprofit organization, you’ll need...

9-minute read

How to Use Infographics to Boost Your Presentation

Is your content getting noticed? Capturing and maintaining an audience’s attention is a challenge when...

8-minute read

Why Interactive PDFs Are Better for Engagement

Are you looking to enhance engagement and captivate your audience through your professional documents? Interactive...

7-minute read

Seven Key Strategies for Voice Search Optimization

Voice search optimization is rapidly shaping the digital landscape, requiring content professionals to adapt their...

How to Ace Slack Messaging for Contractors and Freelancers

Effective professional communication is an important skill for contractors and freelancers navigating remote work environments....

Make sure your writing is the best it can be with our expert English proofreading and editing.

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Happiness Hub Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• Happiness Hub
• This Or That Game
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Relationships
• Ideas for Dates

How to Plan the Perfect Date

Last Updated: July 3, 2024 References

• Planning Ahead
• Getting Creative
• Date Etiquette

Expert Q&A

This article was co-authored by Moshe Ratson, MFT, PCC . Moshe Ratson is the Executive Director of spiral2grow Marriage & Family Therapy, a coaching and therapy clinic in New York City. Moshe is an International Coach Federation accredited Professional Certified Coach (PCC). He received his MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from Iona College. Moshe is a clinical member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), and a member of the International Coach Federation (ICF). There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 440,994 times.

Going on the perfect date is nearly every person's dream. Whether you're dating the suave romantic type, the adventurous fun type, or the quirky and artsy type, there are tons of date ideas that are a perfect fit. Planning the perfect date takes careful consideration and planning, but the great time you'll have will be worth all of the effort.

Things You Should Know

Dating coach Stefanie Safran says to “come up with [a few places] where you know you'll make your best presentation.” Give your date some times to meet and ask what date option they prefer. She recommends coming up with another plan for “if the date is going well,” too.

Planning Ahead for the Perfect Date

• Simply asking “Are you free Wednesday or Thursday?” gives options, while still being direct. This will show your date that you respect their time, but can still handle making plans.
• Asking your date if they'd prefer to go out on a weeknight or weekend is also a great way to show that you're flexible and want to see them on a day that works best for their schedule.

• Ask your date "Would you rather have a relaxing night or get a little adventurous?" or "Would you rather we have an indoor or outdoor date?" Their answer will point you in the right direction for your planning.
• Don't be too specific when giving your date options. Keep some of your plans as an element of surprise.

• Some restaurants don't take reservations, and some activities won't require tickets. If this is the case, it's important that you come up with a backup plan for your date just in case your initial plans don't pan out.

• Make two dinner reservations at nearby restaurants – one at 6pm and one at 6:30, for example. If you happen to be running late for your first reservation, you'll have another reservation at a restaurant that's nearby. This will make a great impression on your date, as it will be obvious that you've thought this date through.

• For example, if you're planning on going hiking, give your date a heads up to wear sneakers and comfortable clothing. High heels and hiking aren't a good time.
• If you plan on going to an opera, tell your date to have fun getting dressed up for a romantic night on the town. If they're underdressed for something like the opera, they may feel uncomfortable, resulting in them not enjoying the date.

• Instead of picking an actual location, offering to take a walk or go for a scenic drive is a great option to spend more time with your date.
• Your date may offer for you to come back to their place – that's perfectly fine! However, it's important to let your date make that suggestion, otherwise you may come off a bit pushy.

Being Creative With Your Plans

• Choosing the movies for a date isn't a bad idea, it's just not the perfect idea. Putting some creativity into your plans will show your date that you've made an effort to show them a great time.
• Movies can be fun if you go to a local film festival, or go see a cult classic at a local theater. If you're totally set on going to the movies, make it an interesting experience.

• Take a cooking class together. Cooking together can be fun and delicious, so look up local cooking classes in your neighborhood.
• Go on a mini-tour of restaurants and eat a different course at each one. This is a great way to turn dinner into a fun date night adventure. Start with appetizers at one restaurant, get dinner at another, and end the night at an amazing dessert shop.
• Try out food trucks in your neighborhood. Instead of the traditional restaurant experience, check out the local food trucks in your city. This is a fun way to learn more about your neighborhoods and communities while eating delicious food.

• Go bungee jumping, try rock-climbing, or hit the water for some kayaking. These are super adventurous dates that will never be forgotten.
• If your date is up for a fun time that's not too extreme, try mini golf and go-karts.

• Make sure your date doesn't feel the pressure to be good at any of these things. Emphasize that these activities are all for fun.
• If your date enjoys the arts but doesn't want to actually participate in an artsy activity, try going to an art gallery or a concert. Pick an activity that will still allow the two of you to interact.

• If your date wants to unwind, bring a blanket and a bottle of wine for stargazing in the park. This will make for a nice and relaxing evening while still giving you a chance to get to know each other. Bring a telescope if you have access to one so that the two of you can see all of the stars.
• Plan a lazy Sunday brunch date instead of Friday night dinner. This takes away the pressure of a fancy dinner date.

Minding Your Manners While on Your Date

• If you're going out on a fancier date, break out your favorite dress and heels, or your favorite blazer.
• If you're going on a fun, adventurous date, wear your go-to jeans, your favorite boots or sneakers, and a cute shirt or jacket. Wearing clothes you love will make you feel more comfortable. [9] X Research source

• Of course, things happen in life, and you could end up running behind schedule. If this is the case, give your date a quick call or text to apologize for running late, and give them an honest timeframe of when they should expect you.
• Confirm the time of your date earlier in the day. This will ensure that the two of you are on the same page, and your date will appreciate that you are confirming plans.

• Compliment them on something they're wearing or how they look, and be genuine. Instead of saying "You look nice," say "You look beautiful. The color red looks amazing on you!" Being specific with your compliments will show them that you're paying attention.
• Don't go overboard with the compliments, but make an effort to show your date that you notice the effort they put into getting ready for the date. [11] X Research source

• Don't show off how much you're paying for the date. It may come off like you're showing off or bragging, so it's best to be more discreet when paying the bill.
• If your date involves an activity where tipping is involved, leave a good tip (15%-20%). This will impress your date.
• If your date seems bothered by you paying, let them know that you're more than happy to foot the bill. Express that you invited them out and you want this date to be your treat.

• Ask what kind of date they'd like to go on next. If they're unsure, give them options again. For example, ask "Would you like to do something adventurous next weekend? I know of some amazing hiking trails and mountain climbing spots." (You can pick your own activities, of course).
• Or if you don't want to go the adventurous route, say "I'd love to see you again next week. Are you free to grab lunch or dinner?" This shows them that you're flexible to their schedule, and they'll appreciate you giving the options.
• Reader Poll: We asked 1171 wikiHow readers, and 53% of them agreed that the ideal time frame between the first and second dates is a few days to 1 week . [Take Poll]

• If your date keeps their distance while saying goodbye, or seems in a rush, these are signs that they're not interested in a goodnight kiss. Some people tend to move slower than others when it comes to intimacy, so this does not necessarily mean that your date doesn't like you.
• A first kiss is normally brief and tongue-free, as this shows your date that you like and respect them. If they initiate further intimacy, you can follow their lead.

• Remember that the purpose of a date is to get to know the person you are dating and to spend time with them. A hike in the wilderness will accomplish that goal far better than an equal amount of time spent in a movie theater. Thanks Helpful 7 Not Helpful 0
• Bring a cute gift, go to a Photo Booth, or win a stuffed animal prize. You don't have to spend tons of money or get anything fancy, but give your love interest something to remember your date by. Thanks Helpful 8 Not Helpful 1
• If you’re uncomfortable in heels, dressy flats work just as well! Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 1

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://gearpatrol.com/2015/05/22/how-to-plan-a-first-date/
• ↑ http://elitedaily.com/dating/gentlemen/plan-perfect-date/
• ↑ http://www.sosuave.com/quick/tip240.htm
• ↑ http://www.artofmanliness.com/2009/12/13/road-map-to-the-perfect-first-date/
• ↑ http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/advice/g631/100-date-ideas/?slide=21
• ↑ http://www.fridaywereinlove.com/2014/08/5-relaxing-date-ideas.html
• ↑ http://www.whowhatwear.com/what-to-wear-first-date-2014/slide10
• ↑ http://www.menshealth.com/sex-women/perfect-date

About This Article

The best way to plan the perfect date is to choose a non-conventional date. Skip the movies and take your date to karaoke or a painting class instead. Be wild and plan an outdoor adventure date, like kayaking or rock climbing. Go stargazing at the park with wine. For more tips on planning the perfect date, like making reservations and having a backup, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Mar 1, 2017

Did this article help you?

Mcclain Miller

Jun 22, 2017

Dec 20, 2016

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

Get the best dating & love tips

wikiHow's Relationships Newsletter

How to Write the Perfect Essay

06 Feb, 2024 | Blog Articles , English Language Articles , Get the Edge , Humanities Articles , Writing Articles

You can keep adding to this plan, crossing bits out and linking the different bubbles when you spot connections between them. Even though you won’t have time to make a detailed plan under exam conditions, it can be helpful to draft a brief one, including a few key words, so that you don’t panic and go off topic when writing your essay.

If you don’t like the mind map format, there are plenty of others to choose from: you could make a table, a flowchart, or simply a list of bullet points.

Discover More

Thanks for signing up, step 2: have a clear structure.

Think about this while you’re planning: your essay is like an argument or a speech. It needs to have a logical structure, with all your points coming together to answer the question.

Start with the basics! It’s best to choose a few major points which will become your main paragraphs. Three main paragraphs is a good number for an exam essay, since you’ll be under time pressure. 

If you agree with the question overall, it can be helpful to organise your points in the following pattern:

• YES (agreement with the question)
• AND (another YES point)
• BUT (disagreement or complication)

If you disagree with the question overall, try:

• AND (another BUT point)

For example, you could structure the Of Mice and Men sample question, “To what extent is Curley’s wife portrayed as a victim in Of Mice and Men ?”, as follows:

• YES (descriptions of her appearance)
• AND (other people’s attitudes towards her)
• BUT (her position as the only woman on the ranch gives her power as she uses her femininity to her advantage)

If you wanted to write a longer essay, you could include additional paragraphs under the YES/AND categories, perhaps discussing the ways in which Curley’s wife reveals her vulnerability and insecurities, and shares her dreams with the other characters. Alternatively, you could also lengthen your essay by including another BUT paragraph about her cruel and manipulative streak.

Of course, this is not necessarily the only right way to answer this essay question – as long as you back up your points with evidence from the text, you can take any standpoint that makes sense.

Step 3: Back up your points with well-analysed quotations

You wouldn’t write a scientific report without including evidence to support your findings, so why should it be any different with an essay? Even though you aren’t strictly required to substantiate every single point you make with a quotation, there’s no harm in trying.

A close reading of your quotations can enrich your appreciation of the question and will be sure to impress examiners. When selecting the best quotations to use in your essay, keep an eye out for specific literary techniques. For example, you could highlight Curley’s wife’s use of a rhetorical question when she says, a”n’ what am I doin’? Standin’ here talking to a bunch of bindle stiffs.” This might look like:

The rhetorical question “an’ what am I doin’?” signifies that Curley’s wife is very insecure; she seems to be questioning her own life choices. Moreover, she does not expect anyone to respond to her question, highlighting her loneliness and isolation on the ranch.

Other literary techniques to look out for include:

• Tricolon – a group of three words or phrases placed close together for emphasis
• Tautology – using different words that mean the same thing: e.g. “frightening” and “terrifying”
• Parallelism – ABAB structure, often signifying movement from one concept to another
• Chiasmus – ABBA structure, drawing attention to a phrase
• Polysyndeton – many conjunctions in a sentence
• Asyndeton – lack of conjunctions, which can speed up the pace of a sentence
• Polyptoton – using the same word in different forms for emphasis: e.g. “done” and “doing”
• Alliteration – repetition of the same sound, including assonance (similar vowel sounds), plosive alliteration (“b”, “d” and “p” sounds) and sibilance (“s” sounds)
• Anaphora – repetition of words, often used to emphasise a particular point

Don’t worry if you can’t locate all of these literary devices in the work you’re analysing. You can also discuss more obvious techniques, like metaphor, simile and onomatopoeia. It’s not a problem if you can’t remember all the long names; it’s far more important to be able to confidently explain the effects of each technique and highlight its relevance to the question.

Step 4: Be creative and original throughout

Anyone can write an essay using the tips above, but the thing that really makes it “perfect” is your own unique take on the topic. If you’ve noticed something intriguing or unusual in your reading, point it out – if you find it interesting, chances are the examiner will too!

Creative writing and essay writing are more closely linked than you might imagine. Keep the idea that you’re writing a speech or argument in mind, and you’re guaranteed to grab your reader’s attention.

It’s important to set out your line of argument in your introduction, introducing your main points and the general direction your essay will take, but don’t forget to keep something back for the conclusion, too. Yes, you need to summarise your main points, but if you’re just repeating the things you said in your introduction, the body of the essay is rendered pointless.

Think of your conclusion as the climax of your speech, the bit everything else has been leading up to, rather than the boring plenary at the end of the interesting stuff.

To return to Of Mice and Men once more, here’s an example of the ideal difference between an introduction and a conclusion:

Introduction

In John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men , Curley’s wife is portrayed as an ambiguous character. She could be viewed either as a cruel, seductive temptress or a lonely woman who is a victim of her society’s attitudes. Though she does seem to wield a form of sexual power, it is clear that Curley’s wife is largely a victim. This interpretation is supported by Steinbeck’s description of her appearance, other people’s attitudes, her dreams, and her evident loneliness and insecurity.

Overall, it is clear that Curley’s wife is a victim and is portrayed as such throughout the novel in the descriptions of her appearance, her dreams, other people’s judgemental attitudes, and her loneliness and insecurities. However, a character who was a victim and nothing else would be one-dimensional and Curley’s wife is not. Although she suffers in many ways, she is shown to assert herself through the manipulation of her femininity – a small rebellion against the victimisation she experiences.

Both refer back consistently to the question and summarise the essay’s main points. However, the conclusion adds something new which has been established in the main body of the essay and complicates the simple summary which is found in the introduction.

Hannah is an undergraduate English student at Somerville College, University of Oxford, and has a particular interest in postcolonial literature and the Gothic. She thinks literature is a crucial way of developing empathy and learning about the wider world. When she isn’t writing about 17th-century court masques, she enjoys acting, travelling and creative writing. 

Recommended articles

Best Universities to Study Medicine in the World

A degree in Medicine spans many years, so it’s important to make a good choice when committing yourself to your studies. This guide is designed to help you figure out where you'd like to study and practise medicine. For those interested in getting a head start, the...

What Is A Year Abroad?

One of the great opportunities offered to UK university students is taking a year abroad. But what does this involve? Who can do it? What are some of the pros and cons? In our year abroad guide, we’ll explain some of the things to bear in mind when considering this...

The Ultimate Guide To Summer Internships

Are you eager to make the most of your summer break and jumpstart your career? There are so many productive things students can do in the summer or with their school holidays, and an internship is one of the most valuable! A summer internship could be the perfect...

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Writing Tips Oasis - A website dedicated to helping writers to write and publish books.

10 Words to Describe a Good First Date

By Ali Dixon

Are you writing a scene where a couple are going out together for the first time? Are you looking for inspiration to write this meeting? Here are 10 words to describe a good first date.

1. Romantic

Consisting of or seeming like romance ; having an inclination for romance.

“He took her to a nice restaurant and they had a  romantic  first date together.”

“Their first date was so fun and so  romantic  that even before it was over, they both knew that they would go on a second.”

How it Adds Description

One of the reasons to go on a first date is to see if there is potential for romance. If the first date you’re  describing in your story  is a good one, then it makes sense to describe it as being romantic.

Providing enjoyment or amusement ; full of fun.

“The two of them went to the fair for their first date, and they had so much  fun  together that they talked on the phone every day after that.”

“She wanted to plan a really  fun  first date and so decided that they would go to the arcade.”

Ideally, a first date should be a lot of fun! When you describe a first date in your story as being fun, this shows readers how well the characters on the date get along as well as how enjoyable the activities on the date are.

Extending a considerable distance or amount of time .

“Because the date was such a good time, neither of them realized how  long  it lasted and it was quite late when they got home.”

“The date was especially  long  but she hardly noticed because of what a good time she was having.”

A first date may go on for an unexpectedly long time, especially if the people on the date are having a really good time together. Describing the date as long can show that the time these characters have spent together has flown by.

4. Intimate

Of a personal or very private nature ; involving or marked by feelings of romance.

“The restaurant was nearly empty when they arrived, and they shared a very cozy and  intimate  first date.”

“They got along extremely well on their  intimate  first date and once it was over they both agreed to see each other again as soon as possible.”

If you describe the first date two characters go on in your story as intimate, this will show how romantic the date is as well as how tender the feelings between the two characters are.

5. Exciting

Producing feelings of excitement ; arousing one’s emotions.

“The prospect of their first date was really  exciting  and it met every single one of their expectations.”

“After such an  exciting  first date, it was hard to imagine going out with anyone else ever again.”

Maybe this first date is something one or both characters on it have been looking forward to for a long time. If that’s the case, then going on the date would be very exciting. There may also be things happening on the date that are quite exciting.

Offering warmth or comfort ; marked by the intimacy between people; providing contentment or ease.

“Their first date was particularly  cozy  as they spent it eating at a quiet restaurant and then going for an evening walk through the nearby park.”

“It was a quiet and  cozy  first date, and both of them were excited to try something new on their second.”

This is another word that can help to emphasize how intimate this first date is. Describing it as cozy can imply that physically the date is warm or offers comfort or that there is emotional warmth between the characters on the date.

Lacking or freed from stringency or precision ; being at ease.

“She had been nervous while she was getting ready, but their first date was a  relaxed  affair and she got along with her date very well.”

“He was glad that instead of going all out, they had an extremely  relaxed  and informal first date that allowed them to get to know one another.”

If two people get along particularly well on their first date, then you can use the word relaxed to show that there is no tension or discomfort between them.

Done without serious commitment or intent ; informal.

“She was glad their first date was so  casual  because otherwise, she’d have felt like there was too much pressure.”

“A  casual  walk through the park was perfect for their first date since it gave them the chance to really talk about their lives.”

People don’t usually go all-out on a first date. You can describe the date as casual to show a little informality that may help the two characters feel more comfortable with each other.

9. Memorable

Notable ; worth remembering.

“The conversations that they had and how well they got along made it a  memorable  first date.”

“Their first date had been many years ago, but it was so  memorable  that neither had any problem recollecting it.”

If a first date is a good one, then the characters on it will probably have an easy time remembering it. It may be memorable because they did something unique during the date, or simply because the two of them got along so well.

10. Thoughtful

Chosen or given to with regard to the needs and desires of others .

“She was surprised at how  thoughtful  the plan for the first date was and couldn’t believe he’d remembered everything she’d said earlier.”

“For their first date, she wanted to do something  thoughtful  and so she decided to make a reservation at the restaurant he had told her was his favorite.”

You can describe the first date in your story as being a thoughtful one if one character puts a lot of thought and effort into the planning.

The Perfect Date: How To Create An Unforgettable Experience

Looking to create an unforgettable date? Want to make a lasting impression on your partner? Look no further!

In this article, we’ll show you how to plan the perfect date that will leave your loved one speechless. From choosing the right location to incorporating thoughtful gestures, we’ve got you covered.

Get ready to create an unforgettable experience that you both will cherish. So, grab a pen and paper and let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

Choosing the Right Location

Choose a location that suits your interests and creates a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere for both you and your date.

When deciding between outdoor and indoor settings, consider the type of experience you want to have. Outdoor locations offer a sense of adventure and a chance to connect with nature. Whether it’s a picnic in the park or a hike in the mountains, being outside can create a relaxed and romantic atmosphere.

On the other hand, indoor locations provide a sense of intimacy and privacy. You can opt for a cozy café, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee and engage in deep conversations, or a fancy restaurant, where you can indulge in exquisite cuisine.

The choice between public and private locations depends on your comfort level and the dynamics of your relationship. Public places, like museums or art galleries, can spark interesting conversations and provide a shared experience. On the other hand, private locations, like your own home or a rented cabin, offer the opportunity for a more intimate and personal setting.

Ultimately, the key is to choose a location that aligns with your interests and allows both you and your date to feel relaxed and at ease.

Planning Unique Activities

Get creative and plan activities that will make your date truly memorable. Instead of opting for the traditional dinner and a movie, consider planning outdoor adventures and culinary exploration. Outdoor adventures provide a sense of excitement and can bring you closer together as you experience something new and thrilling. You could go hiking in a scenic national park, try kayaking or paddleboarding on a peaceful lake, or even go on a bike ride through the city. These activities allow you to enjoy the beauty of nature while creating lasting memories with your date.

Culinary exploration is another unique activity that can be a fun and delicious way to spend time together. You could take a cooking class together, where you can learn new recipes and techniques while enjoying each other’s company. Alternatively, you could go on a food tour, sampling various cuisines and discovering hidden gems in your city. Exploring different flavors and trying new dishes can be an exciting adventure for your taste buds and can spark interesting conversations about your shared love for food.

Incorporating Thoughtful Gestures

To create an unforgettable experience, consider incorporating thoughtful gestures throughout your date. Surprise surprises and personalized surprises can make your date feel special and cherished.

One way to surprise your date is by planning a romantic picnic in a secluded spot, complete with their favorite snacks and drinks.

Another idea is to leave little love notes or small gifts for your date to find throughout the day, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement.

Personalized surprises can include arranging for a private cooking class if your date loves to cook, or taking them to a concert of their favorite band. Pay attention to their interests and hobbies, and plan activities that align with their passions.

Thoughtful gestures can also be as simple as offering a warm hug or holding their hand when they least expect it. These small acts of affection can go a long way in making your date feel loved and appreciated.

Creating a Romantic Atmosphere

To further enhance the unforgettable experience, create a romantic atmosphere that will ignite passion and set the stage for a truly magical date. Begin by setting up a candlelit dinner for two. Dim the lights, scatter some rose petals on the table, and let the soft glow of the candles create an intimate ambiance. The flickering flames will add warmth and romance to the evening, making it feel like you’re in your own little world.

To complement the enchanting setting, prepare a romantic playlist. Choose songs that resonate with your relationship and evoke feelings of love and nostalgia. Slow, melodic tunes will help create a soothing and intimate atmosphere, allowing you to connect on a deeper level. Let the music fill the air as you enjoy each other’s company and engage in heartfelt conversations.

Remember, the key to creating a romantic atmosphere is attention to detail. Pay close attention to the little things that will make your date feel special and cherished. From the soft lighting to the carefully selected songs, every element should work together to create a sense of intimacy and romance.

Making Memories That Last

Capture the essence of the evening by taking photos together to create lasting memories of your perfect date. In this digital age, capturing moments has never been easier. Whip out your smartphone and snap away! Whether it’s a cute selfie, a picturesque sunset, or a candid shot of your partner laughing, these photos will serve as a beautiful reminder of the special moments you shared.

To make your memories even more meaningful, consider incorporating personalized surprises throughout the date. Maybe you can create a scavenger hunt that leads your partner to places that hold sentimental value, such as the spot where you’d your first date or the park where you shared your first kiss. Along the way, leave small tokens or notes that symbolize your love and the memories you’ve created together.

Another idea is to create a memory jar. Before the date, write down little memories or inside jokes on small pieces of paper and place them in a jar. Throughout the evening, take turns pulling out a memory and reminiscing about it together. This simple yet heartfelt activity won’t only bring back cherished memories but also create new ones as you laugh and smile together.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i ensure that my date will be impressed with the location i choose.

To impress your date with the location, choose the right ambiance. Consider their preferences and interests, and find a place that aligns with that. Creating a memorable experience starts with selecting a setting that will leave a lasting impression.

What Are Some Unique Activities That Can Be Planned for a Perfect Date?

Looking for unique date ideas? Get creative and surprise your date with activities like a sunset picnic, indoor skydiving, or a cooking class. These unexpected experiences will make your date unforgettable.

Are There Any Thoughtful Gestures That Can Be Incorporated Into a Date to Make It More Special?

Incorporate thoughtful surprises and personalized touches into your date to make it more special. These gestures show that you’ve put extra thought and effort into creating an unforgettable experience.

How Can I Create a Romantic Atmosphere for a Date?

To create a romantic ambiance for your date, start by choosing the perfect location. Consider places like a cozy restaurant with dim lighting or a scenic spot with a breathtaking view.

What Are Some Tips for Making Lasting Memories on a Date?

To make lasting memories on a date, think about romantic dinner ideas and add a surprise element. Create an experience that is unique and unexpected, ensuring your date will never forget the special moments you shared together.

So there you have it, the key elements to creating the perfect date and ensuring an unforgettable experience.

By choosing the right location, planning unique activities, incorporating thoughtful gestures, creating a romantic atmosphere, and making lasting memories, you can create a truly special and memorable date.

Remember, it’s all about putting in the effort and making your partner feel loved and cherished.

So go ahead, start planning and let the magic unfold!

Improving writing skills since 2002

(855) 4-ESSAYS

Type a new keyword(s) and press Enter to search

The perfect date night.

• Word Count: 603
• Approx Pages: 2
• View my Saved Essays
• Downloads: 1
• Grade level: High School
• Problems? Flag this paper!

            Ever daydreamed about how a first date would go? Or ever who it would be with, and where? Honestly, I think we all have at some point. Anyone can just rent a movie and order pizza, but a perfect date takes preparation and thought. The goal of dating is to win over the other person's feelings, and get to know each other better. Going on a nice date will boost attraction from the start. There are a few things that make a date interesting and memorable, such as location, the conversation between each other, and lastly the goodbye. Often time people do not know the importance of a perfect first date but here are the details of one for future reference. .              First, it all starts with the location and atmosphere of where the gentlemen is taking a lady. It is best if the area is not too loud. But also, not to quiet that the only voice heard will be each other. So I will say a restaurant is always a winner for a date locations, such as Texas Roadhouse. I say this because it allows face to face interaction and have one on one conversation. A sports bar, on the other hand, such as Buffalo Wild Wings is a bad idea. Women like to feel important and sitting a man in front of chicken wings, and a football game is not the way to start off a relationship. Which leads me to the next topic of dinner conversation. .              On a perfect first date, the key is to get to know that person better and find out who they are. When on a date, the attention should be focused on each other and what the other person is saying. Starting off with a few compliments always is a plus. Good communication skills show a lot about an individual, and also makes her date feel special that you can hold a conversation with them while being interested. During the dinner, particular topics should be addressed, such as favorite movies, hobbies, birthdays, and interests. The whole night the women will be thinking about if she wants to take this any further after the date or vice versa.

• Page 1 of 2

Essays Related to The Perfect Date Night

1. men and womens idea of the perfect date.

Men & Women's Idea of the Perfect Date Contrast Paper Point-to-point Dating is a common subject when it comes to people over the age of 15. ... Men and women differ in their pre-date rituals, their post-date rituals, as well as their idea of the perfect date. ... Females love to brag about the perfect night to friends. ... If they had a bad date, most likely his friends would not make it a priority to figure what went wrong that night. ... When it comes to the perfect date, men and women's thoughts differ dramatically. ...

• Word Count: 617
• Grade Level: High School

2. Dates Are Awkward

If you can't I suggest trying a blind date! ... Blind dates can be either a night mare or a daydream depending on how you go about them and how you get them. The oldest and most revered "blind date" is an arranged marriage. ... Friends team with other friends or partners in an attempt to conjure up a more perfect union between people they know. ... In my experience, "blind" isn't even the word for this type of blind date. ...

• Word Count: 576

3. Date Rape

Everything was perfect; he was on time; the flowers were beautiful; he opened doors and pushed in chairs. He was the perfect gentleman. However, by the end of the night her perfect gentlemen transformed from Dr. ... And her dream-date quickly became her worst nightmare and life long struggle. ... Susan Mufson and Rachel Kranz, authors of Straight Talk About Date Rape, use a chilling statistic to illustrate the alarming rate of date rape in society. ...

• Word Count: 1333
• Approx Pages: 5
• Has Bibliography

4. The Dangers of Online Dating

According to Online Dating Magazine, more than 20 million people visit at least one online dating service a month, and that over120,000 marriages a year that occur as a result of online dating Today many women are turning to online matchmaking services for several reasons: Casual dating and friendship, ease, common interests. ... It's quicker and easier to post a profile and wait for multiple possibilities, than to troll a club night after night looking for the perfect match. ... Check out the dating service: What is their reputation? ... Talk through the dating site only: Most dating ...

• Word Count: 1415
• Approx Pages: 6

5. First Date

When I was a little girl, I had always dreamed of how perfect my first date would be. ... I would always watch her gets ready to go out with her friends, or when she had a date. ... I just couldn't wait till my first date. ... By the end of the night, I was exhausted from all the dancing and excitement. ... I knew I could start dating. ...

• Word Count: 556

6. The Perfect Student

Good grades are not all you need to be a perfect student. ... She was never allowed to spend the night away from her mom, or date in high school. ... She started out appearing to be the perfect student. ... She came home on the weekends, and stayed in at night. ... It kept her up so she could study all night and party all day. ...

• Word Count: 896
• Approx Pages: 4

7. A night to Remember

Vanessa was a complete opposite of me she was perfect in my eyes had everything anyone would ever want in life. ... The class was perfect it was Speech and there was always time to socialize in the class. ... Well that night when I showed her that car I told her to come sit in the passenger seat and with the CD player playing a song called "Passenger Seat" by Steven Speaks I asked her out on a date. ... I woke up that day around 9 due to the excitement I had looking forward to that night. ... I have always wondered how such an appalling night on paper was such a enjoyable night to both of us. ...

• Word Count: 1587

8. My Last First Date

My last first date is an example of this I will never forget. ... It was her, her plans had fallen through and she wanted to get together that night. ... Meeting some friends at the lake and enjoying a fire sounded perfect. When www arrived the night started downhill. ... Looking back on it now, I can say there is nothing I would change about my "last first date."...

• Word Count: 823
• Approx Pages: 3

9. The History of Mirrors

Some of the earliest man made mirrors have been found in Turkey dating back about 6000 years, made from polished stone and black volcanic glass obsidian. ... Although a mirror captures a perfect picture, it is not a framed picture. ... A mirror can replicate a perfect image, but also follow and imitate any move we make. ... Some cultures take this further, insisting that mirrors should be covered at night and when people in the house are sleeping, to make sure that a dreamer's wandering soul doesn't get trapped in one. ...

• Word Count: 726

Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, generate accurate citations for free.

• Knowledge Base
• How to write an essay introduction | 4 steps & examples

How to Write an Essay Introduction | 4 Steps & Examples

Published on February 4, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on July 23, 2023.

A good introduction paragraph is an essential part of any academic essay . It sets up your argument and tells the reader what to expect.

The main goals of an introduction are to:

• Catch your reader’s attention.
• Give background on your topic.
• Present your thesis statement —the central point of your essay.

This introduction example is taken from our interactive essay example on the history of Braille.

The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability. The writing system of raised dots used by visually impaired people was developed by Louis Braille in nineteenth-century France. In a society that did not value disabled people in general, blindness was particularly stigmatized, and lack of access to reading and writing was a significant barrier to social participation. The idea of tactile reading was not entirely new, but existing methods based on sighted systems were difficult to learn and use. As the first writing system designed for blind people’s needs, Braille was a groundbreaking new accessibility tool. It not only provided practical benefits, but also helped change the cultural status of blindness. This essay begins by discussing the situation of blind people in nineteenth-century Europe. It then describes the invention of Braille and the gradual process of its acceptance within blind education. Subsequently, it explores the wide-ranging effects of this invention on blind people’s social and cultural lives.

Instantly correct all language mistakes in your text

Upload your document to correct all your mistakes in minutes

Table of contents

Step 1: hook your reader, step 2: give background information, step 3: present your thesis statement, step 4: map your essay’s structure, step 5: check and revise, more examples of essay introductions, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about the essay introduction.

Your first sentence sets the tone for the whole essay, so spend some time on writing an effective hook.

Avoid long, dense sentences—start with something clear, concise and catchy that will spark your reader’s curiosity.

The hook should lead the reader into your essay, giving a sense of the topic you’re writing about and why it’s interesting. Avoid overly broad claims or plain statements of fact.

Examples: Writing a good hook

Take a look at these examples of weak hooks and learn how to improve them.

• Braille was an extremely important invention.
• The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability.

The first sentence is a dry fact; the second sentence is more interesting, making a bold claim about exactly  why the topic is important.

• The internet is defined as “a global computer network providing a variety of information and communication facilities.”
• The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education.

Avoid using a dictionary definition as your hook, especially if it’s an obvious term that everyone knows. The improved example here is still broad, but it gives us a much clearer sense of what the essay will be about.

• Mary Shelley’s  Frankenstein is a famous book from the nineteenth century.
• Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific advancement.

Instead of just stating a fact that the reader already knows, the improved hook here tells us about the mainstream interpretation of the book, implying that this essay will offer a different interpretation.

Here's why students love Scribbr's proofreading services

Discover proofreading & editing

Next, give your reader the context they need to understand your topic and argument. Depending on the subject of your essay, this might include:

• Historical, geographical, or social context
• An outline of the debate you’re addressing
• A summary of relevant theories or research about the topic
• Definitions of key terms

The information here should be broad but clearly focused and relevant to your argument. Don’t give too much detail—you can mention points that you will return to later, but save your evidence and interpretation for the main body of the essay.

How much space you need for background depends on your topic and the scope of your essay. In our Braille example, we take a few sentences to introduce the topic and sketch the social context that the essay will address:

Now it’s time to narrow your focus and show exactly what you want to say about the topic. This is your thesis statement —a sentence or two that sums up your overall argument.

This is the most important part of your introduction. A  good thesis isn’t just a statement of fact, but a claim that requires evidence and explanation.

The goal is to clearly convey your own position in a debate or your central point about a topic.

Particularly in longer essays, it’s helpful to end the introduction by signposting what will be covered in each part. Keep it concise and give your reader a clear sense of the direction your argument will take.

As you research and write, your argument might change focus or direction as you learn more.

For this reason, it’s often a good idea to wait until later in the writing process before you write the introduction paragraph—it can even be the very last thing you write.

When you’ve finished writing the essay body and conclusion , you should return to the introduction and check that it matches the content of the essay.

It’s especially important to make sure your thesis statement accurately represents what you do in the essay. If your argument has gone in a different direction than planned, tweak your thesis statement to match what you actually say.

To polish your writing, you can use something like a paraphrasing tool .

You can use the checklist below to make sure your introduction does everything it’s supposed to.

Checklist: Essay introduction

My first sentence is engaging and relevant.

I have introduced the topic with necessary background information.

I have defined any important terms.

My thesis statement clearly presents my main point or argument.

Everything in the introduction is relevant to the main body of the essay.

You have a strong introduction - now make sure the rest of your essay is just as good.

• Argumentative
• Literary analysis

This introduction to an argumentative essay sets up the debate about the internet and education, and then clearly states the position the essay will argue for.

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts is on the rise, and its role in learning is hotly debated. For many teachers who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its critical benefits for students and educators—as a uniquely comprehensive and accessible information source; a means of exposure to and engagement with different perspectives; and a highly flexible learning environment.

This introduction to a short expository essay leads into the topic (the invention of the printing press) and states the main point the essay will explain (the effect of this invention on European society).

In many ways, the invention of the printing press marked the end of the Middle Ages. The medieval period in Europe is often remembered as a time of intellectual and political stagnation. Prior to the Renaissance, the average person had very limited access to books and was unlikely to be literate. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century allowed for much less restricted circulation of information in Europe, paving the way for the Reformation.

This introduction to a literary analysis essay , about Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein , starts by describing a simplistic popular view of the story, and then states how the author will give a more complex analysis of the text’s literary devices.

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale. Arguably the first science fiction novel, its plot can be read as a warning about the dangers of scientific advancement unrestrained by ethical considerations. In this reading, and in popular culture representations of the character as a “mad scientist”, Victor Frankenstein represents the callous, arrogant ambition of modern science. However, far from providing a stable image of the character, Shelley uses shifting narrative perspectives to gradually transform our impression of Frankenstein, portraying him in an increasingly negative light as the novel goes on. While he initially appears to be a naive but sympathetic idealist, after the creature’s narrative Frankenstein begins to resemble—even in his own telling—the thoughtlessly cruel figure the creature represents him as.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

• Ad hominem fallacy
• Post hoc fallacy
• Appeal to authority fallacy
• False cause fallacy
• Sunk cost fallacy

College essays

• Choosing Essay Topic
• Write a College Essay
• Write a Diversity Essay
• College Essay Format & Structure
• Comparing and Contrasting in an Essay

 (AI) Tools

• Grammar Checker
• Paraphrasing Tool
• Text Summarizer
• AI Detector
• Plagiarism Checker
• Citation Generator

Your essay introduction should include three main things, in this order:

• An opening hook to catch the reader’s attention.
• Relevant background information that the reader needs to know.
• A thesis statement that presents your main point or argument.

The length of each part depends on the length and complexity of your essay .

The “hook” is the first sentence of your essay introduction . It should lead the reader into your essay, giving a sense of why it’s interesting.

To write a good hook, avoid overly broad statements or long, dense sentences. Try to start with something clear, concise and catchy that will spark your reader’s curiosity.

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

• It gives your writing direction and focus.
• It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

The structure of an essay is divided into an introduction that presents your topic and thesis statement , a body containing your in-depth analysis and arguments, and a conclusion wrapping up your ideas.

The structure of the body is flexible, but you should always spend some time thinking about how you can organize your essay to best serve your ideas.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

McCombes, S. (2023, July 23). How to Write an Essay Introduction | 4 Steps & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved September 3, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/introduction/

Is this article helpful?

Shona McCombes

Other students also liked, how to write a thesis statement | 4 steps & examples, academic paragraph structure | step-by-step guide & examples, how to conclude an essay | interactive example, "i thought ai proofreading was useless but..".

I've been using Scribbr for years now and I know it's a service that won't disappoint. It does a good job spotting mistakes”