Personality and compatibility tests are wildly popular these days.  Everyone is clamoring to take these tests so that science can reveal something elusive about their personalities, and hopefully match them with someone who is their soul mate.  These tests are used to match people who don't know each other using facts about their physical and social demographics and personality profiles.  Most online dating services don't tell their customers a whole lot about the science of personality assessment and compatibility pairing.   So how do you know when you're using an online dating site that correctly applies compatibility and personality assessment testing?  Let's explore the subject more so we can be better informed.  Doing online dating is a big step, and the more you know the more in control you'll be of your experience.

The fact of the matter is that matchmaking has been around forever.  People have always tried to figure out what traits best work together in different humans, and what factors might make someone more compatible with someone else.   So the online dating test you take on eHarmony or PerfectMatch are not anything new in the world, but they do them in a different way that utilizes the technology and further research of our time. 

So does compatibility testing actually work, and should you do it?  Well, it depends on what you're looking for.  If you want a one-night stand, or to just date a lot of people without commitment, then the answer would be no.  In fact, I believe you shouldn't do online dating at all if this is the case.  You should go to your local bar and do your business there.  You should take an online compatibility test if you're ready to commit to finding someone to stay with.  Otherwise, it's a total waste of time.

You should also stay realistic about compatibility tests.  These tests are based on science, and in my experience, compatibility is more about art than science.  There is no clear answer about what makes people click when dating online, and what doesn't.  Sometimes it's through trial and error that we find what works, and not simply by an online dating compatibility test.   These tests are used for internet dating to narrow the pool of potential online dates.  These tests don't mean that these are the only people you'll be able to connect with.  Again, they're more a basis for you to begin your search.

It's a great idea before beginning any online dating experience to research the different kinds of tests and compatibility strategies of each site you're considering because they all do it differently.  This will allow you to make an informed decision about which matchmaking process you believe in and want to be a part of.   And, ask yourself if you're ready to take a compatibility test, because it may reveal a lot of things about you you're not interested in seeing.  When you begin an online dating test, you're basically taking a personality test that will tell you various things about yourself.   Are you ready to hear what the test has to say?