Science-backed ways to hack your online dating profile to get the best matches for Valentine's

It's that time of year again, when previously well-adjusted singles everywhere find themselves scrambling to avoid feelings of Hallmark-induced loneliness and desperation - Valentine's Day.

But if you don't have a date yet, fear not!

Dating online gives you access to a much larger pool of potential romantic partners than meeting people through conventional methods. It also gives you a peek at compatibility before you even commit to a date too.

We've scoured the research on online dating for the best ways to improve your odds of finding someone special.

Here are eight tips to help ensure you don't spend V-day alone: