How to reply when a girl texts you hi

A 'hi' or 'hey' is low effort on purpose. She's not trying to have a full conversation yet. She's testing whether you're someone worth her time or just another guy she matched with. If you met in person or have actual history, it's different. A 'hi' after a real date or conversation usually means she's interested and is giving you the first move.

But most of the time, a 'hi' alone means she liked your profile or wants to see if you'll bore her. If she had something specific to say, she would have said it. So don't treat it like a deep opening. Treat it like a permission slip to start something real.

Your reply should acknowledge that she messaged you, then move the conversation somewhere specific. Don't pretend she said more than she did. Don't ask a generic question that could apply to anyone. Instead, reference something from her profile, the way you met, or a detail that makes it clear you're actually talking to her and not a template.

Then add a real question or observation that requires a real answer. Something that shows you're interested in her specifically, not in messaging someone. Keep it brief. Two to three sentences max. Make her want to write back, not feel obligated to.

Reply within an hour or two if you can. Not instantly, which looks like you've been waiting for her message. Not the next day, which makes her think you forgot or don't care. Somewhere in between says you saw it, you thought about it, you had something worth sending.

If she doesn't reply in the next day or two, don't send a follow-up. She either isn't interested or got busy and will come back when she's ready. If you don't hear anything after a week, move on. One good message is enough. After that, you're just chasing.