If you have been dating for a while, you may know a little about how your partner communicates. But asking this question forces you both to have a direct conversation about what you both need to talk about serious topics. For example, one of you may need to hold hands while you talk so you are reassured that the other still cares or one of you may prefer to talk while you're engaged in an activity such as walking or hiking. Do your relationship a favor by talking about it so that you don't have to learn as much by trial and error.