“You always understand these history assignments, but I don’t get this one. Can you explain to me what we’re supposed to write about?” “Can you offer any advice for my presentation tomorrow? You always stay so calm and cool during these things!”

For example: “Everyone says you’re the best DJ in the city, so can you share any advice I can give my nephew who’s really into that?” Or: “That was amazing how you closed that deal with Acme Corp. when no one else could. What’s your secret?”

Try something like this: “You were a machine during that fundraiser walk-a-thon yesterday! How’d you first get involved with the local food bank?” Or this: “I can’t thank you enough for stepping in to help with the basketball camp on short notice. I could tell that those kids mean the world to you. ”

Send a text like this: “Thanks again for donating to the Alzheimer’s fundraiser. I’m determined to top last year’s total and you really helped out. ” Or one like this: “Sorry I didn’t stop to chat at the pool. I was trying to beat my best time for 20 laps (and did!)”

For example, if he’s a lawyer and you’re an accountant, you might send this: “What did the lawyer say to the accountant? (Awaiting your response) (No hurry) (Seriously, I can wait)” Or, if you know he’s a big Seinfeld fan, you might send this on December 23: “Happy Festivus! What’s your all-time most impressive Feat of Strength?”

If he’s just gotten into off-road biking, you might text something like this: “Have you heard of the Switchback trail at Westwood Park? Wanna tackle it with me on Saturday?” Or you might try this if he’s really into sports: “I’m looking for a partner for quiz night at Ray’s Tavern. I hear you know your sports trivia. Wanna team up?”

So, instead of asking him out (or waiting for him to ask you out) via text, use texting as a way to get to know each other a little. Ask questions, share observations, and let your connection develop over time.

Use your texts as a way to work toward that face-to-face meetup: “Wanna meet at the student union to talk about our strategy for this class presentation?” Or, if face-to-face isn’t possible, aim for a phone call or video chat: “Call me an old-timer, but I’m a lousy texter. Any chance you could call me?”

Don’t send a Cap guy a text on a whim, particularly if it’s your first text to him. Think about it. Type up a few drafts until you find the right one. Treat it like you’re sending them a really short introductory letter, not just some random conversation-starter.

Avoid texting generic greetings or observations (like “Hey,” “Nice day, huh,” or “What’s up?”) that don’t really lead anywhere. Texting for texting’s sake doesn’t make sense to a Capricorn. They text with a purpose and like when you to do the same.

DON’T: Text repeatedly to try to get an answer from him. Complain about how hard your day was. Go on about how cute or kissable he is. DO: Text once and let him respond on his own time. Ask if he has advice for a problem you had today. Compliment him on his good looks and his positive qualities.