Utensils
Rules of the Napkin
During the Meal
General Etiquette
100

Once you use your knife, where should it be placed?

On the edge of a plate or saucer, NOT directly back on the table

100

When should you place your napkin in your lap?

As soon as you sit down at the dining table. 

100

What is the proper way to eat bread or rolls?

Break into small bites and butter each just before eating. 

100

True or False - If asked a question by your host while eating, you should answer immediately

False, you should finish chewing and swallow your food before speaking. 

200

If there are multiple utensils next to your plate, which do you use first

You should always work from the outside in.

200

If you excuse yourself from the table for a moment, where do you place your napkin?

On your chair. 

200

What should you do if someone asks you to pass the salt?

Always pass the salt & pepper together, even if both are not requested. 

200

If in doubt of proper etiquette at some point during a meal, what should you do?

Follow the lead of the host

300

If you do not care for something, you just put in your mouth, what do you do?

Remove it the same way it went in, on your fork/spoon; then discreetly discard it at the edge of your plate. 

300

True or False - It is OK to dip your napkin in your water glass and dab at a spot on your clothing. 

False, if you spill something on your clothing, excuse yourself to the restroom. 

300

True or False - It is OK to cut meat into small bites at the start of a meal. 

False, meat should only be cut 1 or 2 pieces at a time. 

300

How should you properly ask for something to be passed from the other end of the table?

Would you please pass the _____? Thank you!

400

Where should your utensils be placed when you have finished your meal?

All utensils should be placed beside each other, diagonally across the center of your plate. 

400

Once finished with dinner, where should your napkin be placed?

Placed loosely on the table next to your plate

400

What is the proper way to get the last of the soup out of your bowl?

Tilt the bowl away from you to get the last of it with a spoon.  DO NOT slurp from the bowl or soak it up with bread!

400

When dining with a large group, when is it acceptable to begin eating?

When 3 or 4 people near you have been served, or when you host gives permission. 

500

There are two forks beside your plate, what is each called?

The first, smaller fork is the salad fork.  The inside, larger fork is the dinner fork.

500

True or False - Gently blotting your mouth is the proper way to use a napkin during a meal. 

True

500

When a lady approaches or leaves the table, what should gentlemen do?

Gentlemen should stand unless the lady gives them permission to remain seated. 

500

Your mother always said, "Elbows off the table," so what about your wrists?

It is acceptable to rest your wrists on the edge of the table.