Gallery: 5 Things You Should Talk About on a First Date, According to Science

First dates can be AWKward ... *crickets* ... We're taught everything NOT to say. We shouldn't mention—even slightly—how hawt our jerky ex was, or ask if he voted for Trump or Hil, or tell him how terrible our day was, even if we lost that great promotion to a dude named Larry, who wears a weekly wardrobe of button-up shirts donning birds.

And, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days taught us to never tell him everything we ate that day. Nope. 

So, what the heck are we supposed to talk about? Well, relax. I'm going to let you in on a little secret. Women dominate first dates. How do I know? Because women are awesome, of course, and...because science says so. According to a particular study, the overall decision as to whether or not a couple "clicks" is most likely determined by the woman. *mic drop*

Apparently, women are pickier than men. This means that, ladies, you're in control. So, sit back and breathe calmly, unless you're out with a total hot-hottie, then full permission to freak. But the main thing to always remember is to be engaged in the conversation, listen intently, and laugh. Have fun...and if you want a second date, talk about these five things, according to science: