Specimen #1: The Best Guy Friend
You two share a zillion private jokes, hilarious IMs while half-watching MTV and a spooky pattern of accidentally dressing in the same color on the same day. But romance is not an issue—this relationship is platonic with a capital P.

Why he shows promise: because he’s someone you can totally be yourself around. This is the guy you can gossip with and shake it with—and who’d tell you in a minute if the body shimmer wasn’t working. Do you ever not have fun together?

Bonus: being casually guided (by BGF) toward your crush when he starts eyeing you across the dance floor. And you’ll do the same for him when his would-be honey starts looking his way.

Beware of: losing each other in the crowd as you max out on mingling.

Prepare by: mapping out prom plans first. Do you want to stick together no matter what, or go with the (individual) flow? Make a choice, and shake on it.

Bottom line: this is about as close as you can get to a guaranteed great night—a stress-free, fun-filled, let-loose-and-party-with-the-pals prom-a-thon!

Specimen #2: The Out-Of-Towner
You met him last summer while on vacation with your family, and you’ve been texting ever since. He’s funny and cool and amazing on guitar—only thing is, he doesn’t know a soul in your school.

Why he shows promise: because you talk easily but still get that butterfly rush when you see his digits on your cell. Plus, you never really stopped thinking about that romantic good-bye kiss last August…

Bonus: (possibly) kicking off a summer of love.

Beware of: being solely responsible for your out-of-town date’s good time. This can feel like a huge weight on your (bare and perfectly tanned) shoulders.

Prepare by: suggesting he come into town the night before to hang out with you and your friends. This way, he’ll know more than one friendly face at prom—and you’ll have some freedom to work the room.

Bottom line: if Mr. Out-of-towner is outgoing and up for the adventure, you could be in for a romantic reunion—and a fabulous, fun-packed prom night.

Specimen #3: The Long-Time Crush
You’ve been doodling his profile on your notebook since September. But whenever you chat him up, you feel like Dorkita the Doofus.

Why he shows promise: because he’s a fantasy come true! In your (daily) daydreams, the two of you are slow-dancing in a candlelit ballroom and your hair is spilling down your bare back in Shakira-style waves. When is that ever going to happen but at prom?!

Bonus: being the envy of every girl.

Beware of: building your expectations to unrealistic heights. Wanting everything to be perfect could make you nervous and self-conscious. Sure you want this long-awaited night with your dream date to be the best, but if you spend the whole time obsessing over your every move, where does fun fit in?

Prepare by: mellowing out on prom day with our sanity savers.

Follow it up with this mantra: I am fabulous, and he’s lucky to have me as his date. Then, let the night unfold.

Bottom line: paralyzing jitters can squash the fun. Think twice before you trade in your carefree, confident attitude for a long shot at fantasy fulfillment.

Specimen #4: The Boy Next Door
He’s been in your class since kindergarten, and at this point he’s practically invisible—part brother, part lawn furniture, he just doesn’t show up on your radar screen. But when was the last time you really checked him out?

Why he shows promise: because you grew up together and have tons of friends in common (which means you’ve already got that great group thing going). And back when you were five, you did plan to marry him…

Bonus: parental trust—which could translate into permission for postprom activities you wouldn’t otherwise be allowed to go to. At the very least, your worrywart dad won’t keep beeping you all night long.

Beware of: making too little effort. Don’t take your date for granted, or you really will feel like you’re at the prom with your brother.

Prepare by: changing your mind-set. Give thy neighbor a chance to start fresh. When you open your door and see him all prommed out, make it a new beginning. Flirt a little, and enjoy the feeling of familiarity spiked with excitement.

Bottom line: comfy as a favorite pair of jeans, your boy next door could either be bland or a blast—and your behavior could tip the scales.