I find now it's harder than ever to meet up with someone 3x in a row, to be able to close. Usually it's a "rule" I try to keep, but more times than not I usually F-close on the first or second date. Meeting someone 3x in a row could take between 1-3 months. Yes single women are most likely free every night, but they like to play games pretend they are super busy and drag things out until there's no interest left. They are just like us keep their options open and date multiple people.
I'd prefer 3 short dates of about 1-hr each, but many times I'm stuck talking on the phone for 1-2 hours a day sometimes several times before we even meet. I guess in these circumstances I might be accidentally falling into the friend-zone without realizing it. Obviously, I can't force my way into her vagina, even if I try to brainwash her with seduction techniques. It's really a lot of work screening potential candidates though.