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Craps Guide

Craps is largely a game of chance, at least to the novice player. But with a few tips and tricks, you can quickly have the success and winnings of a more seasoned player. Here is a list of some guidelines to get the most out of your game of craps:

  1. 1. Learn the rules- Though the basic rules and bets are usually the same; you need to be aware that there are many variations that can be applied to the game (such as New York craps or Open craps). Even one seemingly small tweak to the rules and you can find yourself on the losing end of a bet. Knowing the rules means knowing what you are up against, and therefore means you are likely to place smarter bets.
  2. 2. Don't be afraid to ask for help- The dealers are there to answer your questions and make sure you are not confused. If you are not sure of a minimum bet, odds or any rules, ask and they will help. They are experts and are ready to share their knowledge with you.
  3. 3. Set a budget and bankroll- Know how much you can play, then establish how much you will bet each time. Make sure the two coincide. For instance, if you only have 100 dollars in 5 dollar chips, it is not advisable to place 20 dollar bets, as you can already be broke with only 5 rolls of the dice. Play a table that has a minimum bet that is on par with your budget and bankroll. If you are playing online, many offer practice or free games, use these first as a learning tool, and then move on to wagering money.
  4. 4. Know the odds of your table- Casinos will offer varying odds at different tables. Know what the odds are before you find a place to stand and bet! A good standard is 2:1 odds, but some tables will have higher ones. It is advisable to play the ones offering the higher odds since payouts will be much bigger.
  5. 5. Don't play over your head- It is OK to learn a few strategies that can maximize your money. But don't try to play a complicated strategy when you are new to the game. A simple strategy like only placing one bet at a time to avoid confusion, or only one chip per bet will help you lose the least amount of money while gaining valuable playing experience.
  6. 6. Follow good etiquette- With such a busy, bustling type of action going on at a craps table, its easy to forget your manners. Make room for somebody who wants to get in next to you. Be courteous to all your fellow players. Tip your dealer if you have managed to hit a large amount (ten percent is the usual standard, though any tip is better than none).
  7. 7. Place bets according to the roller- If the person shakes the dice or throws them haphazardly, they are not a skilled or strategic player and are relying on pure chance to try to win. However, if the player sets the dice a certain way in their hand, or takes care to flick their wrist just so, this is likely a seasoned, controlled player. They know how to throw the dice in a way that will try to avoid crapping out. It is a good idea to bet when these types of players are the shooters, for you have a greater chance of hitting your bets.
  8. 8. Do not get distracted! - Craps is easily the noisiest and most exciting area of a casino. The excitement level can sometimes reach a fever pitch. But if you get caught up in the excitement, you can get distracted, leading to bad bets. If you are losing, no matter how "hot" the table is, you must quit betting! Failure to do so will result in your bankroll being diminished, or even being exceeded.
  9. 9. Don't be afraid to increase your betting as you get more comfortable- Like any other casino game, craps will only have a big payoff with some kind of risk. Though it is advisable for a newbie to place small, one-chip bets, they are likely to be getting even odds, and therefore they have not really added much to their bankroll, if at all. Once you feel good about your knowledge of the basic bets, then you can start playing two chips, or placing more than one bet at a time. This is the only way to make any significant amount of money.
  10. 10. Know when to quit! - Craps is easily the most fast-paced of all casino games. Craps players, by nature are not a patient lot. The fast pace of craps can be very exhilarating, but it can also mean that you will end up broke just as fast, if you are not careful. Set goals and don't go beyond those. If you take 100 dollars to the table and want to leave with 150, then leave once you hit 150. If you want to double your money, do so and move on! If you don't, you can quickly lose your money with just a few toss of the dice. Never ever bust your budget!