Etiquette is the proper behavior at a particular place and during a particular occassion, based on courtesy and consideration for others. Etiquette should be practiced not to impress others but to be a way of life.
In dining, the social gracces or proper behavior called for are as follows:
- Say "Please" and "Thank you" as called for y the situation.
- Wait for the host or hostess to sit down before taking your seat. Wait for them to begin eating before you start.
- Sit up straight in your chair. Wait for the food to be passed or ask to have it passed.
- Take only small bits of food. Chew and swallow it quitely.
- Avoid talking when the mouth is full. Remember to drink water, milk and other liquids slowly.
- Break or cut foods into bite size pieces i.e. bread should be bite-size before buttering. However, only enough for one or two bites should be buttered at a time.
- Place the spoon on the saucer beside the cup. Avoid leaving the soon standing in the cup.
- Used flatware should be placed in the dish not on the table.
- When finished eating, leave the flatware on the right handside of the plate. The cutting edge of the knife should be turned towards the center of the plate and teh fork prongs up beside it. The napkin which is partly folded should be at the left side of the plate.
- Carry on pleasant, cheerful and interesting conversations during meal time.
Try to practice this at home so you'll get used to it.