Remember when people used to actually talk on the telephone? No, neither do I. Texting has fast replaced the world of verbal talk and where comfort resides, mistakes often follow. In the world of dating in London you need to get your texting right or trouble will ensue.

Its just a little message, it doesnt really mean anything, right? Wrong. That all important text is likely to be analysed and re-read so make sure you write ir right – first time around.

1) No drinking and texting

Its a long awaited night out and youve sipped a few cocktails. Your inhibitions are vanishing faster than Tara Palmer Tomkinsons nose and all of a sudden, an imaginary light bulb appears above your drunken head. Whatever you do, refrain from sending him a drunken text! Drunk texts are way too obvious, unsexy and are rife with evidence that you are thinking about him. Leave the mystery intact and save the texts for the morning light.

2) Peek-a-text

Playing hard to get is as old as the dating game itself but even randomness is a pattern. Game playing is just boring. Pretending you didnt see his text and taking days to respond is as predictable as texting back straight away and if youre not careful; he might just save his words for the girl who did text back. By all means, wait the mandatory ten minutes but leave the delayed mail for the post office.

3) Text-versating

A bit of banter is fine but holding a full blown conversation about serious matters over text is frustrating and nonsensical. You can never fully grasp the persons tone, its a breeding ground for mis interpretations and its basically anxiety in a tiny device. Not cool.

4) Sexting

Whilst it can be welcome foreplay to send flirty texts, make sure you know the guy fully before sending him detailed explanations about what you want to do to him/what you want him to do to you etc. Or you can send him all the filth you like and run the risk of your friends receiving a list of your favourite sexual positions should you fall out.

5) Its not you, its text

No matter how temptingly easy it may be, resist breaking up over text. Its cowardly, rude and it serves as a match to any bridges you may have had. You wouldnt like it done to you so dont do it to him. Simples.

6) Shoot for the texts

Texting for the sake of it is painful and transparent. The guy doesnt care that you just spent £100 on a pair of Topshop shoes nor has he seen Eastenders this week. Make sure your texts serve a purpose or you might find that you no longer do (harsh but true).

7) On a clear day, you can text forever

Clarity is key. If youre meeting him at 7pm, make sure you include where. If youre running late, ensure you include how much longer youre going to be. Texts do not explain themselves; you tell the phone what to type.

8) Double or quits

If you havent received a response to your last text, dont double text him. Its desperate and he probably wont respond to that either. Act aloof, be patient and hell text back.

9) Time and space

Texting when youre in a bad mood or in the cinema is going to result in a text youll regret. Make sure that youre concentrating fully; afterall, its only a little button to send but once its delivered, theres no going back. Just a little tip from me to you.

10) Mr. Right

Weve all been there; sending a text to the wrong person. Sometimes its funny, sometimes its erm…not. Unless you want your mum to know how horny you are or your boss to know what a fool you really think she is; get the message to the right person. Its like a two second job.

Of course, a bit of finger fun (on your mobile phone) can prove to be exciting and fun; thousands of words at your finger tips…just use them wisely ladies…