Okay, you've managed to familiarize yourself with some of the basics of craps. Well done! That's no mean feat. Many would-be craps players have started down the journey of learning how the game works only to give up in sheer frustration at the number of bets that can be made, the minutiae of rules and procedures, and the intricacies of table etiquette. We want to give you some tips about good craps etiquette in order to help propel you along your journey.

Some of this might be new information, and some of it might serve as a recap of your existing knowledge. It’s important that you understand these foundational and ethical principles before you enter a casino and join a game. Take care! Players won’t be enamored if you contravene and/or ignore these boundaries. We've listed four of the most important principles.

As In Life, Etiquette In Craps Is Essential

Etiquette Tip #1
Don’t annoy the shooter

Don't annoy the shooter either before or after the die are rolled. He may not throw the dice combinations that you’re after, but that's hardly his fault. Accept that the shooter is merely a catalyst for the workings of chance and luck, despite what some claim about dice techniques.

Etiquette Tip #2
Speak “seven” at your peril

Don't utter the word “seven” at the craps table… ever. In fact, don't even whisper it unless you'll get a bunch of angry craps players with pitchforks running after you around the casino floor ready to string you up. Craps players in particular tend to be rather superstitious and won't take kindly to your hopeful pronouncements about the ensuing role. It's just considered bad luck.

Etiquette Tip #3
Respect player–dealer boundaries

Make sure you understand which bets you as a player can make and which bets you must hand to the dealer to make. Never insult the dealer merely because he’d adhering to the rules of the game by collecting your bet. A dealer is well within his rights to direct you to leave the table if you’re getting rowdy and insulting. Remember: craps tables can have up to four casino employees manning a single table, so if you pick a fight with one, you’ll likely have four to deal with!

Etiquette Tip #4
Play the Don’t Pass line by all means, but you won’t be Popular

Playing the Don't Pass line is like moving to the dark side of the force. You're essentially betting against the shooter and you need to understand that some shooters will take this personally. Of course, you're well within your rights to make this bet and the more mature players won't hold it against you. But when have people ever been mature? The point, really, is that the majority of craps gamblers will make the Pass line bet in the spirit of community and in support of the shooter. If the shooter is making you angry for whatever reason, then feel free to spite him by wagering money on this failure. Just do it consciously, and know that you won't win any popularity contests.

Learn more about craps:

• Craps Tips
• Craps Strategies
• Craps Game Reviews/Previews