Dining etiquette seems like it would be common sense. Don’t speak when your mouth is full. Don’t burp at the table. Cover your mouth when you cough.

Although the don’ts are a great way to avoid social embarrassment, sometimes people need a reminder in manners.

According to Patricia Napier-Fitzpatrick, founder of the Etiquette School of New York, “Good table manners are really nothing more than having a sensitive awareness of others and conducting oneself in a manner that makes the dining experience pleasant for everyone involved.”

Her essential do’s for dining include:

Do try a little of everything you are served unless you are allergic.

Do wipe your fingers and mouth often with your napkin.

Do avoid talking with food in your mouth.

Do leave dropped silverware on the floor.

Do compliment the host or hostess about the food when finished.

Her essential don’ts for dining include:

Don’t begin to eat until everyone has been served.

Don’t blow your nose with your napkin.

Don’t discuss unpleasant or controversial subjects at the table.

Don’t pick your teeth at the table.

Don’t answer your cell- phone or text while at the table.

The last don’t seems like a real do in today’s world, especially with the advent of smartphones. No one is really ever off their phone.

Emily Post, long known for her manners, published her seminal book titled “Etiquette”. Post agrees with many of Napier-Fitzpatrick’s do’s and don’ts. She includes wait until you’re done chewing to sip or swallow a drink, which is a good way to avoid choking.

She also states to avoid slouching and don’t place your elbows on the table while eating. Post thinks it’s a do to take part in the dinner conversation.

As Post once said, “The real test of table manners is to never offend the sensibilities of others.”

Also keep in mind that manners and etiquette standards vary from place to place, so next time you’re traveling make sure to do your research to avoid embarrassing yourself, or even worse, offending your host.