Craps Reference Chart

The main reason that most people are reluctant to try craps is that they feel it is too complicated. I often hear people say that the layout is confusing and intimidating. A lot of people are unsure about the bets, the odds and the payoffs. These are common concerns of most people have about the game.

Some friends of mine were headed for the casino and asked if I could explain the game to them in a simple way and write down something they could take with them to the casino to use as a reference. I created a Craps Reference Chart for them that I would like to share with you. It explains simple bets, the house edge and the payoff for each bet.

The Reference Chart can be folded to fit easily in a shirt pocket. The inside of the chart looks like the craps table layout. For each bet on the layout you will see the how the bet is won, the house edge and the payoff for that bet. For simplicity I use a minimum five- dollar bet.

In the space for the pass line you will see that it tells you the bet will
Win on a 7 or 11
Lose on a 2, 3 or 12
Any other number must be repeated before a seven is thrown.
You must bet the table minimum and it pays even money.
The house edge is 1.41%.

The "Odds Bet" is an additional bet that can be made behind your pass line bet. Most casinos let you make an odds bet that can be twice the amount of your pass line bet. If you take double odds on your pass line bet you could reduce the house edge to .61%. The chart shows what the odds bet will pay your for double odds.

The numbers for the place bets are shown in the position you will see them on the craps table. Above the place bets the chart tells you that a place number must roll before a seven is rolled. You will see what the pay off and house edge is for each place bet. The pay off for the place bets is different from the pass line odds bets. This is because they are not paid at true odds.

It is sometimes confusing for a new player to remember which odds are for the pass line and which are for the place bets. The back of the Craps Reference Chart lists the pay off for the odds bets and the place bets. One quick glance is all you need to make sure you have the correct amount for each different number.

My friends found the chart very helpful. I think anyone interested in learning the game will find it helpful as well. I would like to offer a FREE copy of the Craps Reference Chart to all my online friends who log on to read my column each week. All you need is send a SASE (Self Addressed Stamped Envelope) to handle the postage.

If you would like a FREE Craps Reference Chart,
Click here for the ordering information.

Until next time, remember:
"Luck comes and goes...Knowledge stays forever."

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