Casino Education & Strategy Guide
Understanding Dice Probability, Betting Odds & Table Etiquette
Master the terminology and mathematics behind one of casino gaming's most exciting games.
Craps is a dice game with unique terminology that can seem intimidating to newcomers. Understanding these key terms is fundamental to grasping the game's mechanics and probability concepts.
The first roll in a craps round that establishes the point. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, pass line bets win immediately (called a "natural"). If they roll 2, 3, or 12 (called "craps"), pass line bets lose. Any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10) becomes the point, and play continues.
The number established on the come out roll (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10). Once a point is established, the shooter continues rolling until either the point number is rolled again (pass line wins) or a 7 is rolled (pass line loses, called a "seven out").
The two primary bets in craps. Pass line bets win on a come out roll of 7 or 11 and lose on 2, 3, or 12. Don't pass bets do the opposite, with 12 typically resulting in a push. Understanding the probability distribution is essential for bankroll management.
An additional bet placed after a point is established, offering true odds payout. This is one of the best bets in casino gaming as it carries no house edge. The payout varies based on the point number: 2 to 1 for points 4 and 10, 3 to 2 for points 5 and 9, and 6 to 5 for points 6 and 8.
When a 7 is rolled after the point has been established, ending the shooter's turn. This is the most important roll in probability terms, as 7 is the most frequently rolled number (6 combinations out of 36 possible). Pass line bets lose on a seven out.
The mathematical advantage the casino maintains over players. On pass/don't pass bets, the house edge is approximately 1.4%. Taking odds bets significantly reduces this advantage, making craps one of the better games mathematically for informed players.
With two six-sided dice, there are 36 possible combinations. The number 7 can be made in 6 ways (1-6, 2-5, 3-4, 4-3, 5-2, 6-1), making it the most probable result. Numbers like 2 and 12 have only one combination each, making them least probable at 2.78% each.
True odds reflect the actual mathematical probability of an outcome. House odds are what the casino pays on standard bets. Odds bets pay true odds, which is why they're excellent from a mathematical perspective. Understanding this distinction is crucial for bankroll management strategy.
The casino employee who controls the pace of the game and announces results. Respecting their authority maintains the game's flow and atmosphere. Never interfere with their work or the dice placement.
An old craps superstition where players avoid saying "seven" during a roll to avoid hexing the shooter. While not required, respecting this tradition shows courtesy to fellow players.
The stickman announces each roll's result and often provides entertaining commentary. These are official results that govern all bets. Players should listen carefully to understand outcomes.
Shooters should throw dice with one hand, ensuring both dice hit the back wall. This maintains fairness and game integrity. Respecting proper technique demonstrates understanding of responsible gaming practices.
Similar to pass/don't pass but established after the point. These bets follow the same probability rules as pass line bets but can be made at any time during play.
A one-roll bet covering 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, and 12. The field covers 8 of the 36 possible rolls, giving approximately 22% coverage. Understanding probability helps evaluate whether field bet payouts justify the house edge.
The casino employee responsible for managing the casino's money at the craps table. Understanding their role helps players respect the chain of command and maintain proper table conduct.
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