Methods and apparatus implementing communications using different types of symbols, e.g. different characteristic OFDM symbols, at different times for different purposes are described. A first type of symbol is used for control signaling including conveying transmission request signals and/or transmission request response signals. A second type of symbol is used for conveying user data, e.g., traffic signals. The symbol period for a first type symbol is larger than the symbol period for a second type symbol. The tone spacing for a first type symbol is larger than the tone spacing for a second type symbol. The methods and apparatus are well suited for peer to peer communications systems in which a peer to peer communications device operates in a half-duplex mode of operation.