Soft vs direct matches

Two types of SkillSwap matches

Not every connection on SkillSwap is the same. To make things clearer, the platform distinguishes between direct matches and soft matches.

What is a direct match?

A direct match is a strong, two-way connection where:

• You have at least one Skill to Learn that they Teach, and
• They have at least one Skill to Learn that you Teach.

In other words, you can both learn and teach within the same relationship. These matches are ideal for long-term collaboration.

What is a soft match?

A soft match is a one-way or partial connection. Common cases:

• You can learn from them, but they don't want to learn anything you currently teach.
• They could learn from you, but you're not focused on any skills they teach.

Soft matches are still very useful — especially when you're focused on improving one specific skill and don't necessarily need an exchange in the other direction.

How they appear in the interface

Depending on your version of the app, direct and soft matches may be shown in separate sections or with different labels. For example:

• A badge or tag like Direct match on cards with strong two-way overlap
• Grouped sections such as “Best overall matches” vs “Other options”

What you can do with each type

• Direct matches — great for ongoing learning relationships, switching roles between tutor and learner over time.
• Soft matches — great for targeted sessions when you need help on a specific topic.

How to get more direct matches

If you want more direct, two-way partnerships, try:

• Adding at least one clear Skill to Teach at the level you're confident with
• Keeping your Skills to Learn focused and realistic

The matching system will naturally increase the number of people with mutual overlap in your feed.

Related articles

• How matching works
• Match scores explained