Table Manners in Twenty Minutes

3. What Do I Wear?

Your initial concern will be, "what do I wear?" If you're going to a restaurant, and you haven't been there before, it's a good idea to call ahead and find out what is acceptable. If you're going with another couple, it's also a good idea to find out what the other couple is wearing.

4. Precedence, or Who Goes First?

On the Way There Women go through doors first and down stairs last. If there is any sort of potential difficulty, like in a crowd, the man goes first. A gentleman walks on the street side when he's with woman. The custom originated so he could block anything thrown up from the street by a passing carriage.

12. What Course is Next?

Over the years, the order in which food is served has changed. Since the silverware is set to follow that order, you have to see how the restaurant or hostess serves their courses before you know which silverware to use. Let's go over today's courses first, then in the next section we'll discuss which silverware to use. (Don't be afraid.

14. Fork, Spoon, Knife or Fingers?

When in doubt, use your fork. It's preferred over fingers, spoons, and yes, even knives! If you can eat or cut something with your fork, do so. If you're at a formal dinner, it's the obligation of the hostess to serve food you can eat without embarrassment. For instance, corn on the cob would never be served at a formal dinner. The corn would be removed from the cob and served creamed or buttered.