The LifesScript Editorial Staff took their time to compile this list of things you need to know about men.

Think you’ve got men figured out after years of observation and interaction? Think again. Men and women are different, there’s no two ways about it. But understanding your guy – and accepting what makes him the testosterone-packing specimen you love – will help strengthen your relationship.

Below are some of the deciphering factors of the male species:

#1) He’s into you when…

Here are 5 non-verbal cues the guy you’re after (or already have) is into you:

1. He speaks with his body

He makes eye contact, mirrors your body movements or positions his torso, leg or foot toward you.

2. He’s always available

If he doesn’t have a full schedule, it’s probably because he’s making sure there’s always time for you. And when he says he’s busy, he’ll suggest another time to hang out.

3. He recalls small facts or details that you’ve mentioned

Men who are sincerely interested in you want to know all about you. They pay attention to even the smallest details and use the info to impress you later on.

4. He asks about your future

If he wants to be a part of it, he’ll be gauging whether or not your future plans match up with his own.

5. He’s acting strangely

You know how you can become a bumbling fool around someone you really like? Well take heed when he becomes one around you.

#2) He checks out other girls…

If your guy denies noticing the cute waitress at the café, he’s probably just sugarcoating the truth to avoid an argument with you. Men like to look at beautiful women – just as women admire handsome men.

But that doesn’t mean he’s envisioning a life – or a steamy interlude – with the waitress. Nor does it mean he’s comparing her to you. Odds are he simply appreciates her beauty.

As long as he’s not blatantly ogling girls or flirting in front of you, don’t worry! You’re the one he loves. Avoid the urge to blurt out the dreaded, “Do you think she’s prettier than me?” He finds self-confidence much sexier than insecurity.

#3) He gets hit on…

Women probably flirt with your man. In fact, some may have crushes on him, whether he knows it or not. Sure, tall, dark and handsome men get hit on more often, but even bald guys with beer bellies can be cute. (If you find him attractive, other women do, too.)

He probably doesn’t tell you when it happens, because he doesn’t want you to worry or overreact. Do you tell him every time a man hits on you?

But remember that your guy wants to be with you. As long as he’s not the one doing the flirting, it’s fine for him to be flattered when he gets attention from other women. You should be flattered, too – it proves you’ve got good taste in men!

#4) He wants to get married eventually…

Ball-and-chain jokes aside, most guys do want to get hitched… when the time is right. The idea that all men desire to be life-long bachelors is simply untrue. Most like the idea of spending the rest of their days with one good woman.

The catch is that they also want to sow their wild oats and enjoy the single life first. Men typically want to establish themselves both financially and career-wise, want kids when they’re older and want to own a house by the time they get married.

What if your guy isn’t ready for marriage and you just can’t wait any longer? Move on. He might not be in the place he needs to be right now, or unfortunately, you may just not be his Mrs. Right.

If you’re already married to him, don’t assume that he’s secretly pining for the bachelor life he left behind whenever times get tough. Love, fulfillment and security trump lonely nights and an empty fridge – even for guys.

#5) His version of romance is different from yours…

Generally speaking, your man’s idea of romance is more practical than sexy. Here are five ways to romance your guy – his way:

1. Keep the Compliments Coming

Blame it on his ego, but men are huge suckers for compliments. Praise his skills on a daily basis. It gives him a sense of pride and helps him define his identity.

2. Expect the Unexpected
Keep your man on his toes by surprising him with small romantic gestures. Do the opposite of what he expects.

3. Keep it Simple

They say that to make any man happy, give him these four things: a beer, a sandwich, the remote, and great sex. Translation: Make sure his small, simple needs are met.

4. Give Hard-to-Find Gifts

Sentimental gifts are a direct route to any man’s heart. Taking the time to pick out something you know would be perfect for him shows you know him well and pay attention to his wants.

5. Tell him “I love you”

Possibly the most romantic phrase in the universe ¬– “I love you” – is short, sweet, to the point, and your words won’t get lost in translation.