Something I'm curious about:

AFAIK, things like negs and overcoming shit tests are almost integral to the PU routine: you can show off your mettle, she knows you're not a pushover, you DHV.

But I've also heard (correct me if I'm wrong) that negs should be "used sparingly if the target already has a less-than stellar self-esteem; but for HB10s, usually a few more negs are needed".

Here's the thing: should negs always be included in the routine? What if I've opened the set perfectly, charmed all potential cock-blockers, and she's hanging on my every word with a doggy-at-the-dinner-bowl look?

Can I move straight into Comfort phase, or should I backtrack into Attraction phase and neg her anyway?

The problem I have is that I'm not quite sure how to begin the negging at that point; usually when I neg, it's when the girl is still stand-offish and I can naturally have fun with her. But when they're already visibly attracted even though I haven't negged yet, I'm not quite sure how to get back into the "playful, teasing" mood. Hence, my inclination is to roll with the attraction and go into Comfort.

And I also feel somewhat uncomfortable when she's attracted to me even though she hasn't given me a shit test yet; should I try to instigate one, or just leave it be?

What do you guys think? Are negs and overcoming shit tests always indispensable, or merely useful in the early stage? Are there other ways to demonstrate my value if she doesn't give me a shit test (i.e, not taking shit from other ppl, being unapologetic about myself in front of others)?

Your way better off using negs as NEEDED. Not in specific situations. Because if you game a girls looks you are going to fail more than you are going to close.