Be respectful. You’re about to go out into the world where you will hold girls’ emotions in the palm of your hand like delicate origami birds that have to be treated with the utmost care. There’s nothing that makes someone — you or her — feel more vulnerable than the desire to be intimate with another person. So please remember that before you do or say anything that might hurt her.

Ask. Wait for a yes. This applies to basically everything from a social media follow request to the most intimate moment. “Want to hang out tonight?” “Okay if we do this?” “You cool with this?” “This feel okay?” There’s no harm in asking. Get it out into the open. No means no. And never touch someone when they’re asleep unless you’re already in a relationship.

Pay attention. There are plenty of signs that will show you how someone feels. How does she look at you? Does she blush and look down? Does she show you with her eyes that she’s into you? Does she giggle when you’re close? Does she always like your posts? Does she compliment you? Insult you? Does she roll her eyes when you speak in class or bat them? Words are only one way to unlock secrets.

Don’t badmouth anyone. Especially for liking you. Making fun of girls to your friends for any reason is not cool. It says more about what type of guy you are than whatever alleged deficiency you’re pointing out in the girl. Use your humor for other things, not at the expense of other people. Especially those who actually like you!