If you're the average guy on the average date, at some point the following thought is going to occur to you: "Now what?" If you've done the dinner, the movie, the late night drinks and managed not to screw anything up, the answer to that question is going to involve trying to take her back to your place.

Let's assume that your game is decent and she's agreed to a
nightcap at your apartment -- your success will depend on creating the right setting. So, for the love of women, take a look at the booze you're serving and how (and where) you're serving it. Points to ponder:

-Type of alcohol: Quality is most important. No handles or plastic
bottles and please take down that line-up of Jack Daniels bottles on the mantle.

-Type of drink: Nothing fancy. Wine, a decent beer, or a vodka and tonic should work. If she wants a daiquiri or fuzzy navel, she's probably 16 and too young for your, uh, worldly attentions.

-Type of glass: Just say no to anything that could be referred to as a 'mug,' especially if it has greek letters or is supposed to be kept in the freezer. Invest in a few tumblers and wine glasses.

-Water: You've been drinking for the length of an average workday, and the lady is dehydrated. A little Pellegrino is going to impress her much more than scummy-looking tap water in a glass covered with fingerprints.

-Lime: Use this in mixed drinks. This will probably involve opening your refrigerator. Check the fridge beforehand for odors and visible mold. If you don't want to clean, at least invest in some opaque Tupperware to hide your shelf stains.

-General cleanliness: If you're clearing off any surface in order for her to sit down, it's bad. Take a few minutes before the date to create the illusion of order even if it means throwing your dirty clothes in the hallway closet.

And of course, make sure to leave a hanger on the doorknob so your drunk roomate doesn't barge in to play his xbox just when the magic is starting to happen.