Dating? Here's some advice on what dating rules still ring true from the book "How to Survive Dating" (Hundreds of Heads Books, www.hundredsofheads.com, $13.95), straight from people who've done it:

“I want a partnership relationship so I like to start with shared payment. I can tell a lot about a fellow’s real ability to accept adult equality by his acceptance of this. If I wanted to see him again I’d agree that whoever invited paid. I can tell a lot about someone by how they handle inviting, choosing a place and paying for dinner. I can also tell them a lot about my expectations by doing the same.”

“A man has to step up to the plate and make the plans, lead the show. If they wimp out and I have to do it I’m so turned off. At least have a couple of options to show you have put some thought and creativity into it.”

— Deanna Abney, San Francisco, Calif.

“It’s been said many times before, but guys need to remember they should pay for the first date. Very often, women will attempt to split the check with you, but pay for the whole thing anyway. Very rarely, a woman will insist on splitting it, in which case, go ahead and do so. The idea is to show her some respect, and to demonstrate that you’re no cheapskate.”

— Steve Damon, Manchester, Pa.

— Danny Gallagher, Henderson, Texas

“I went out with this guy once and we met at a small cafe. We had a great time, had dessert and tea and stuff like that. It was time to go and the waitress brought the check. He picked it up immediately, so of course I thought he would pay. After much studying and some silent methodical calculation, he turned to me and said, “Your half is $11.23.” I was shocked! He went halves on me and down to the penny. So cheap, so rude. I was disgusted so I took the bill, put my Amex on top and settled it. I said to him, “I don’t do halves.” The moron had the nerve to try to kiss me after the end of the date and I gave him the cheek. I never returned his calls.

—S.G., Raleigh, N.C.

“Whoever comes up with a good plan for the second date sooner should call first. If the first date went well, then neither of you will be concerned about seeming too needy or eager. If you’re already worried about whether or not you should call, then maybe you shouldn’t be planning that second date.

— Shauna McKenna, St. Paul, Minn.

Hundreds of Heads Books’ survival guides offer the wisdom of the masses by assembling the experiences and advice of hundreds of people who have gone through life’s biggest challenges and have insight to share. Visit www.hundredsofheads.com to share your advice or get more information.