So you forgot valentine’s day. Or the anniversary perhaps. Or maybe you were caught flirting with her best friend. You’ve screwed up, big time. And now she’s sentenced you to two weeks of cold shouldering and-gasp-a month with no loving.

Do not panic. For starters, say , “I’m sorry.” Then, show her you are sorry. Familiarise yourself with these six levels of sorry, each corresponding to the gravity of your misdeed

1. Just say it

Go ahead and spit it out. Say sorry and sound like you really are. It drives girls crazy (as in hopping mad) whenever guys take an eternity to admit that they were wrong and apologise.

How to do it: Bring on those puppy dog eyes and that remorse-stricken visage.

Good for crimes like: Cancelling dinner again at the last minute because of work. Calling her brother a cheapskate. Or not putting down the toilet seat cover.

2. Clown around

laughter reduces stress because positive emotions help create happy neuro-chemical changes in your body. Apologies by making a joke of your crime or yourself, and have a bag-full of funny one-liners ready. If all else fails, tickle her.

How to do it: Remember, you are the butt of this joke.

Good for crimes like: Accidentally letting slip the word fat when she asks you your opinion on her outfit. Or making fun of her fat, stupid dog.

3. Flower power

Nothing says I’m sorry more gracefully than sending flowers to her office. She’s sure to blush and glow with joy, and not to forget, forgiveness, when the delivery guy hands her the bouquet.

How to do it: Pen a simple, heartfelt apology note to go with her favourite flowers. Find out what she likes beforehand, and remember it!

Good for crimes like: Forgetting your first year anniversary. Or when your dog chews up her favourite pair of high heels.

4. Play the chef

Go to cooking classes if you have to, but cook up a storm in the kitchen and serve up a candlelit dinner at home.

How to do it: Surprise her, and then pamper her.

Good for crimes like: Making her late for an important meeting because you didn’t set the alarm clock the night before. Taking her for granted by expecting her to clan up after you.

5. Plan the ultimate date

The ultimate date comprises of three parts. Pre-dinner cocktails, luxury dinner and after-dinner concert. Or some plan just as grand. Use your imagination. Be creative. Be romantic.

How to do it: Plan ahead to avoid more screw-ups.

Good for crimes like: Lying to her about hanging out with the boys when you were actually catching up with the ex.

6. Buy her forgiveness

Only the big names count here. The Gift apology usually means:’ Man, this time you’ve really done it.’

How to do it: Ask yourself just how sorry you are. And choose ‘ big name ‘ accordingly.

Good for crimes like: Calling out the wrong name in bed. Flirting with her best friend.