Men's health put out a book in ~2000 in which they claimed that any woman who would laugh with you could, eventually, decide to have sex with you. Obviously an unfounded claim, obviously untestable, obviously offensive and heavy on truthiness... But I don't think it's absurd to point out that a woman who won't laugh with you definitely won't sleep with you.
Being funny was always my most significant competitive advantage in the dating department. I'll never be the richest or the best looking but I'm down to have fun! It's definitely not about preparing material beyond a decent anecdote or two. It's mostly about listening and enjoying the conversation, working off what material you are handed and giving a woman space to be funny as well. A date that looks terrible on paper can be awesome if both parties are willing to just have fun with each other. Had a fun time all night, the other person has made you laugh and laughed at your jokes. Had a few deep moments where you might have more deeply and seriously connected, a bit of intellectual/spiritual exchange to build some logos and pathos... Might as well keep it rolling in the sack!