How to Place Arms for Dining Etiquette

Proper etiquette at the dinner table requires attention to detail and diligence. The use of the right eating utensils is a vital part to dining etiquette, and arm placement is key. Learn how to place your arms correctly to execute proper dining etiquette.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Cut food portions carefully. Hold your knife in your dominant hand, and use your fork in the opposite hand to hold the food to the plate. Keep your arms slightly elevated so they don't rest on the table or the plate. Be mindful of the people on either side of you so that you don't poke them with your elbows when you are cutting your food.

2. Rest your arms in your lap when you aren't eating. If you gesture with your hands during a meal conversation, you may rest only your forearms on the table. Keep the arms still when in your lap, and avoid the urge to fidget.

3. Pass food correctly at the dinner table. Offer a dish of food to the person on your right and use both arms to hold the dish. Keep your arms elevated as you pass the dish of food to your left. Hold the dish while the person to your left takes a portion. Keep your elbows slightly elevated above the table while you pass the food.

Tips & Warnings

• If you feel the urge to stretch or fidget while dining, excuse yourself from the table and take a break.
• Never stretch your arms at the table. It signifies boredom, and it's not hygienic.
• Don't rest your elbows on the table while you dine.