How to gracefully end fizzled conversations and decline second dates online

[Thomas_T]

I've recently re-entered the online dating scene after a long-term relationship, and I'm navigating a lot of new norms around communication that feel confusing. Specifically, I'm unsure about the etiquette for ending conversations that have fizzled out or politely declining a second date request after a first meeting that was pleasant but lacked chemistry. For others who are more experienced with modern dating apps, what are your guidelines for handling these situations with kindness and clarity? How do you communicate a lack of interest without ghosting, and what's a reasonable expectation for response times and conversation effort in the early texting stages before meeting in person?