Let's keep in mind and clarify we are most likely referring to physical escalation (kissing, touching, etc). Here are my latest findings on the first date escalation based on my own research and field reports:
1) It is dependent on the rapport you have built up until that point. OLD will always have a different rapport than if you met her IRL (and especially in a social setting).
2) You always sexualize the initial conversation and keep that momentum without making it your main focal point. Or you will come across as a pervert, thirsty, desperate, and/or man wh**e/player.
3) Furthermore, she has to see you as a potential sex partner. Being too nice, friendly, or innocent can and most likely will make you a platonic figure in her life (if she wants you in her life at all after a "failed" first date.
4) Create a vast amount of sexual tension prior to and especially during the first date.
5) Here is what I have changed recently. If all of the above have been applied and "mastered". I think it is best to tease her and once super comfortable with touch, prolong the touch and read her body language, and proceed to tease even further by getting close to her neck, getting her scent, perhaps a very soft touch with your lips, etc. Make sure everything is subtle, nothing strong. But DO NOT kiss her, make her want it, make her show you with her eyes she wants it. Make her even go for it, most likely she won't for as much as she wants it.
All of this so that when the date is over, all she can think and wonder about is what kissing you and being with you is like.
So far, it has been super effective and I've enjoyed myself more in the process. Let it be a discovery and slow race. Now that might sound too "romantic" for some of the members here. And if you just want to "smash" then just do 1-4 (add logistics) and 5 make it intentional to progress to foreplay->sex.
Modern Man Advice