Online dating etiquette: balancing message timing and moving from apps to calls

[KennethXP]

I've recently re-entered the online dating scene after a long-term relationship, and I'm struggling with the current norms around messaging, especially the timing of replies and when to move from the app to texting or a phone call. I don't want to seem too eager or too disinterested. For those who are navigating modern dating apps successfully, what are the unwritten rules you follow for maintaining a good conversation flow, and how do you handle the awkwardness of someone just stopping communication without explanation after what seemed like a promising start?