Want to brainstorm ideas for conversation topics? You hopefully will not need to dip into this bag of tricks, but if you do, it can keep a first date moving at a steady pace. After all, nobody wants an awkward lull during dinner or while bowling.

Start off by asking your date some general questions about where he was born, what his family is like, where he works and what his goals are like. This way, you can get a general overview of his life. These are normal first date topics to cover. Once you ask these questions, you can move into more serious or creative territory.

First date conversations can be hard and if you want to make a positive impression, it pays to ask specific and unique questions. Thus, once you know the basics about your date, it is time to ask them some hypotheticals. For example, you can ask them what they would bring to a desert island or where they would travel if they could go anywhere in the world. This way, you can bring some fun to the conversation.

If you are stuck when it comes to the conversation, it pays to ask about your date's friends. Often, these are the people who are closest to him. If you show interest in these people from the start, you are sure to create a stellar first impression.

Lastly, a classic yet useful idea for a conversation topic is to ask about your date's passions. How does he spend his free time? Does he like sports, certain celebrities, books or hobbies? From here, you can delve into what it is about such things that your date enjoys. Whenever your date gives an answer, try to follow up with related question. This way, you show your date that you are interested in him and that you are listening to what he has to say.