I just want to clear up something. A lot of people here seem to think that flirting IS escalation.

It's NOT!!!

Flirting is mostly verbal.

Escalation is physical (touch, hand holding, hug, kiss, sex etc.).

Sure, you can blend the two, or use touch as a form of flirting. But it really is beneficial to separate them into two separate concepts when thinking seduction.

If you struggle going from friend to being seen as a sexual option, do not stress flirting as a noob. Focus on escalation!

Escalation is a requirement if you want to get physical, but flirting is completely optional. Escalation is also, based on my hunch, a much easier skill to learn flirting. At least it was for me, since escalation did not require me to say all the right words or be quick to respond / witty. Even socially stunted guys can still get the escalation part right.

See flirting more like "sprinkles on top". It takes your game from already decent to being outstanding. It shows off that social prowess.

But if you're starting out, and you're getting stuck in the friendly-vibe when talking to women. Make your goal physical escalation first. NOT flirting. Invite her home, hold hands, dial up the cuddling. Take her to the bedroom. Make moves. That's how you get laid.

You can get women into bed with you without flirting at all. But you generally can't get them into bed without physical escalation. Some dudes flirt flirt, and flirt, and still don't get the girl. Because they're not escalating. They're just yappin game, but not following through.

So prioritize escalation. Get that part of your game locked down before you worry about flirting.

It's better to walk the walk, than talk the talk.