Table Game Etiquette

Playing slots and video poker can be fun, but it is a solitary adventure. Table games are exciting and they also give you the chance to interact and share the excitement with fellow players. Other than live poker, the players are competing against the house, not each other. Many times camaraderie develops among the players, which can make it a very enjoyable experience. Although playing table games may look intimidating, it is easier than ever to learn to play the games.

There are many great books that will teach you the basic rules. Once you know the rules games can be practiced on the computer with tutorial software before you take your step into the casino. Some casinos offer free lessons that will teach you the basics of the games as well as some of the basic table game etiquette for each game. If you don't have the opportunity to take a lesson, don't worry. There are only a few things you need to learn before jumping in to the action. Here are a few tips about table game etiquette.

Table Limits

All table games have a placard located somewhere on the table that will tell you the minimum and maximum bets. At the blackjack table you will sometimes see rules for the games such as splitting aces or double after split posted on the card as well. Some placards are color-coded corresponding to the denomination of chips to alert you to the table limit. Five-dollar tables will have a red card and $25 tables will have a green card. Always look for these before sitting down.

Joining the Game

At the Blackjack table, look for an empty betting square. Sometimes a player may be playing more than one hand so an empty chair does not always mean there is an open space. If you see and empty chair at the Pai Gow, Caribbean Stud tables, or most other games it means there is room for you.

Buying in

You must convert your cash into chips when you play table games. Dealers are not allowed to take cash directly from your hands. You must put your money on the table and ask for chips. They will take your money and give you your chips. Wait for the hand being played to finish before requesting chips. Once you get your chips you can place your bet.

General Tips

Blackjack players must give a hand signal to hit or stand when playing a shoe game. Keep your emotions under control. Dealers are only the messengers. If you are losing don't take it out on them.

Avoid giving unsolicited advice to others.

If you become upset with the play of others, leave the table.

Set loss limits and stick to them. Set aside some of your profits when winning to take with you.

Quit when you get tired.

Have fun but remember chips are real money.

Comps

Always give your players card to the floor person or ask them to rate your play.

Never play higher stakes or longer than usual to qualify for comps.

ASK the floor person for a meal comp. They will let you know if you qualify.

And please remember to always ask politely never demand a comp.

Tipping

Dealers rely on tips to make up the majority of their income. Many dealers are friendly and will do their best to help the player. While it is not mandatory it is nice to tip a dealer for good service when you are playing.

One way to tip a dealer at a table game is to place a small wager for them. This makes them feel like they are part of the game. You can either put the bet for the dealers next to your bet or place it on top of it.

Have Fun

These etiquette tips will help to get your started enjoying some of most popular table games. Give it a try. It's fun and exciting.