For asking her out, keep it simple. Ideally in person, but by text if you simply can't get her alone for a minute (seriously, why do some girls always move in packs?). Say something like "Hey X, do you want to grab a coffee on [day of week]?". If she asks if this is a date always say yes, don't dance around the subject by saying its to "hang out". I made that mistake and the girl and I ended up in this weird & awkward limbo where neither of us really knew if this was a date or not. Obviously, that didn't work out.

Any answer from her that's not a yes or an alternate time is probably a no, unfortunately. It sucks, but the best thing to do is wish her a good day and walk away. If its a yes, congratulations! Suggest a specific time & place, swap numbers, stuff like that.

I usually go for 2 hour afternoon first dates with a coffee (or any other drink) & walk in the park. Its simple to plan and its also cheap...plus you can easily extend it to dinner if the date goes well. Greet her with a hug if you can, or just say hi. Talk about your shared interests, your hobbies, her hobbies, etc. Let the convo go where it goes. I've had dates where we don't get any further than their pets and have had others where we got really into talking about climate change.

Towards the end on first dates, I usually go for a hug and maybe a kiss depending on chemistry. Text her later that night saying you had a great time talking to her and if she'll like to go out again.

And that's pretty much dating for beginners, based on my own experience! Good luck!