okay, so I’ll put in my hat in the ring as somebody who has met people from here and on the spectrum. I think that there is a specific etiquette here, which has the following:

1. Start out a message just describing yourself upfront (if the person you match the persons interests). keep it 2-4 sentences, make it straight up what you like. If they ask for pictures, send something non-NSFW so that they can make a judgement without pressure,

2. Take baby steps and ASK FOR CONSENT for flirtitng, Flirting is more a crescendo, and you need to make sure you that they on the starting wavelength. Please don’t just be the dickhead who just sends dick pics. a lot of time you start with benign compliments, and try to then shape the convo on the reactions.

3. Organise plans! At some point you have to meet the people. Bear in mind 95% of people aren’t comfortable with you showing up at your house. think about what you may enjoy, and if you’re feeling it.

4. Learn to enjoy time with the date: if you’re on it, the best way to prompt my brain is “what can I enjoy from the conversation.” He/she maybe super passionate about a field, may have a wicked sense of humour or a background you can relate to. Don’t try to frame as a conversation on the date as “getting the person to like you,” rather your trying to enjoy the company.

In terms of meeting friends, can be tough! There are a lot of autism-specific events and groups (espcially at universities) that can directly cater. Otherwise, have a pick of something you enjoy doing or want to do more of. Run clubs, gym classes, pottery classes. Find a place where you develop that core group of mates. Honeslty reddit has a lot of cons with just making friends.

Good luck with your endeavours, hopefully you can find somebody to chat to and see where that goes! :)