There are some absolute essentials that are required when you're prepping for a date. While we all know this stuff, we're guys and our needs are simple. Why complicate it, right? Even so, there are a few things that are worthwhile reminding ourselves of so we can get the evening off on the right foot. Here's a quick checklist:

Good Hygiene

Too obvious, right? The worst thing you could do when going out on a date (especially if it is your first date with her) is to turn up unshaven, looking dirty and smelling bad. Women hate it and will judge you on how hygienic you are. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that you would be grossed out if she turned up for the date looking like a street urchin that hadn't bathed for a while. It doesn't cost anything to take a bath and make an effort. Remember, bad breath and body odor are an instant big time turn off. Because she thinks of this as a unique occasion, she will assume that this is how you are all the time. Doesn't matter if you are just having a bad day or you didn't think you have time to clean up, she won't see beyond your appearance. You probably won't get a second chance to impress her.

Be On Time 

One of the worst things you can do is turn up late. Turning up late will give her the wrong impression of what you think about her. Women will often assume the worst, so she'll sit around considering the worst case scenarios while she's waiting for you. Not only will she think that she has been stood up, but will also think that you are unreliable and that you don't have a respect for her. If you are picking her up from her home, then it is advisable to turn up 5 minutes before you are due. Don't come any earlier or she will be touching up her makeup or getting dressed and won't want you to see her half ready.

Be Courteous

Little things count for a lot. Don't forget to hold doors open for her. Allow her to walk through the door first. Pull out her chair. Be polite to her and the people around you. Women like to feel special and respected, and by treating her like a lady she will think you are fantastic.

Don't Forget To Compliment Her 

The first thing to say to her is "wow, you look beautiful" before you even ask how she is. Keep the compliments flowing throughout your date, such as "your hair looks nice, I like the color of it, and your outfit is great." But be careful, don't go overboard. Corny comments can often turn a woman off. A woman loves to be complimented because it makes her feel sexy, gorgeous and beautiful. She needs to feel you are attracted to her, always be sincere with your compliments.

Listen to Her and Ask Questions 

Nobody wants to spend the whole night listening to someone talk about themselves or being ignored. And you do have to get to know each other. So, don't be afraid to ask her questions, but more importantly listen to what she has to say. There is nothing woman likes more than when someone is interested in what they have to say.

Prepare Some Conversation Ideas

The last thing you want is to be sitting having a meal and the conversation dries up, leaving you stressing about what to talk about. Think about your date and what you would like to know about her, and in return what you would like her to know about you. Try and think of any questions that she might ask you, so that you can prepare the answer. You think that it is easy to talk, and that you will not run out of questions to ask, or that you will automatically have the answers. Unfortunately, often the dinner outlasts the conversation. And you're left with an uncomfortable silence. Keep your conversation options open until you are there and in the situation, you have no idea what it will be like. You can avoid all of this by meeting for a quick drink, then go on to see a play or a movie, so you have something obvious to talk about.

Who Will Pay For The Evening? 

This is a really tough question since women are increasingly independent and may want to pay their way. It's always acceptable to offer to pay and, if she lets you; take care of the bill. If she wants to pay, you can mention to her that you would like to. Suggesting that you can go dutch and each pay half is an option at this point in the conversation.

Kiss Her Goodnight?

Some women prefer not to kiss after a date while others are disappointed if the guy doesn't even try. There is no easy answer to this. Wait until either she makes the first move or it's very obvious that you are both ready. Watch out for body language and little touches. Sex on the first date is not usually recommended as there are many things that you don't know about each other from a dinner and/or movie. If you make the right moves, your opportunity for a physical relationship will be there anyway. Relax and don't let yourself get tied up in knots.

I'll Call You

This is a big one, THE big one...only tell her that you will call her if you mean it and intend on seeing her again. This is an awkward situation, and most of the time the easiest solution is to take her number and tell her you will call her. Time to man up and not take the easy way out. Don't say it if you are not interested. Just say good night, tell her it was a pleasure meeting her, smile and walk away. But if you do like her and are interested, then make sure you let her know and tell her you'll be in touch.

Obvious tips that are often overlooked or assumed unimportant. Thinking you'll be able to schmooze your way through a date is frequently a problem. The premise is simple. Do a little bit extra and your reward will be some great dates (or more) with women who think that you're the best thing since sliced bread.