From the peacock’s colorful plumes to the toad’s echoing croak, it seems like the entire animal kingdom has flirting figured out.

Unfortunately for us bipeds, homo sapiens have no tried and true designated mating ritual. Even with our opposable thumbs and capacity for consciousness, when it comes to flirting, we’re in the deep end.

The human race has come far, sure, but not far enough to solve the eternal question of how to woo a crush.  

Good thing the opinion section sex-perts are back to settle the debate on the art of flirting. Here are our tips for testing the waters, harnessing the power of seduction and making them fall head-over-heels with your conversational prowess. 

Max Akom – Just give it a try

You should not place much stock in my advice on this subject. 

Most of my flirting attempts go somewhat like this: I say “you seem strange,” then I realize what I have said and scamper away like a rat. 

I think I am getting somewhat better though, and you can too by just trying. Just have some ideas in your head beforehand; it is too easy to expect failure and then be caught by surprise when you start succeeding. 

Olivia Langlan – A smile says a thousand words 

Sometimes prospective attraction can be communicated by not saying anything at all. 

Avoidance or ignoring a person can send mixed messages; show them that you are excited to see them. 

A simple smile goes a long way. There’s power in friendliness. Smile shamelessly. 

Sarah Koegler – Invisible flirting

Sometimes, when you meet someone, whether in class or a bar or wherever, the vibes are unclear. Enter invisible flirting.

This gives you the ability to flirt, teetering on the line of friends or more than friends, waiting for that signal, whether it be a touch, eye contact, or a verbal cue, to push you to one side or the other. 

For example, say you ask your crush out for coffee but don’t specify if you mean as friends or for a date. 

It’s easy to flirt, sometimes, but it is not as easy to come back from flirting with someone who just wanted to be friends. Stay safe this Valentine’s Day and flirt invisibly. 

Emma Dinsmore – Comparing hand sizes

Apparently I have not improved my flirting skills since middle school, because this is still my go-to.

Hear me out, though: it’s a foolproof, casual way to be able to touch your crush and make it clear that you’re interested in being more than friends.

Call me basic or a “pick-me” girl, but it works.

Ayelet Kaminski – Arguing 

If you’re trying to get hot and heavy with someone, don’t back away when the conversation gets heated. 

In our culture, we’re encouraged to avoid conflict at all costs—especially with a potential suitor—but I think feeling comfortable expressing disagreement and being able to argue with someone is pretty intimate. I mean, there’s a reason the “enemies to lovers” trope is so popular. 

So, instead of pretending to like Kanye just because your crush does and building your relationship on a foundation of lies, don’t be afraid to be honest and tell them you think Taylor Swift is a better lyricist.

Cheyenne Rosenberger – Point out the blush

If you’re flirting, making ground and see a touch of pink, an innocent, “awe, I think you’re blushing,” with a bat of the lashes will do wonders.

This may not work on everybody, but if your person is as flusterable as mine, it’ll turn them red as a strawberry. 

Lillian Miner – Get comfy

Friendship is the best foundation for a trusting and loving relationship. 

If you haven’t already, talk with them regularly. Learn their passions, dislikes and outlook on life. The more comfortable you are together, the easier it is to ask them to get a coffee or visit a bookstore. 

Be friends first. If all goes well and you’re hoping to move forward, flirt away. 

Alex Strand – Complain about men

“Damn, there’s so many guys in here and they smell bad and are sweaty and annoying, wanna get out of here?” 

This line helps you know who’s gay and helps you repel men. Two birds, one stone. 

Lucas Martineau – The core tenets of chat and banter

A broken clock is right twice a day, and for once, the British have figured it out.

They have two slang terms for the most important parts of how to flirt well.

“Chat” refers to your ability to naturally and interestingly hold a conversation. You’ve heard of dry texting—trust that it’s much worse in person.

“Banter” is an important component of chat: it’s your ability to playfully tease and joke with your flirtee.

All you need to flirt is good chat and good banter. The rest will come with time.

Annalisa Madonia – Play dead 

Possum it. Ignore them.

Sometimes not flirting is the best flirting tactic of all.