Craps can seem intimidating at first glance—fast-paced action, a wide table layout, and lots of players yelling at the same time. But once you understand the basic rules and focus on beginner-friendly bets, craps becomes one of the most exciting and social games in any casino. Best of all, it offers some of the lowest house edges in gambling when played wisely.
In this beginner’s guide, we’ll walk you through the rules of craps and introduce you to smart, easy-to-understand betting systems. Whether you’re playing online or in a land-based casino, knowing where to start and how to place your chips will help you feel more confident and enjoy the game fully.
Understanding the Basics of Craps
Craps is played with two six-sided dice. The action centers around the “shooter”—the player rolling the dice—and the table where players place their bets on the outcome of each roll.
The game starts with a come-out roll:
- If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, it’s an automatic win for Pass Line bettors.
- If the roll is 2, 3, or 12, it’s called “craps,” and Pass Line bettors lose.
- Any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) becomes the point.
Once the point is set, the shooter must roll that same number again before rolling a 7. If they succeed, Pass Line bettors win. If a 7 appears first, they lose.
This simple structure makes the Pass Line the most popular and beginner-friendly bet at the table.
Best Beginner Bets in Craps
Although there are many betting options in craps, beginners should focus on a few low-risk, low-house-edge bets:
1. Pass Line Bet
This is your go-to starting bet. It’s made before the come-out roll and wins if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11. It loses on 2, 3, or 12.
2. Don’t Pass Line Bet
The opposite of the Pass Line. You win on 2 or 3, lose on 7 or 11, and push on 12. Once a point is established, you’re betting the shooter will roll a 7 before hitting the point again.
3. Come Bet
Similar to the Pass Line but placed after the point is set. It functions the same way for each new roll.
4. Odds Bet
Once a point is established, you can back up your Pass Line or Don’t Pass bet with an Odds bet. This has no house edgeand pays true odds based on the point.
These bets keep things simple and offer some of the best return percentages in any casino game when used consistently.
Simple Betting Systems for Beginners
If you’re looking to add structure to your play, consider using basic betting systems to manage your bankroll and betting approach.
1. Flat Betting System
Stick to the same wager amount on each roll—no increasing or decreasing based on wins or losses. It’s safe, consistent, and minimizes emotional decisions.
2. 3-Point Molly System
This system aims to capitalize on hot shooters. Start with a Pass Line bet, then make two Come bets and back all three with Odds bets. This spreads out your risk while maximizing wins during streaks.
3. Iron Cross Strategy
This involves betting on the Field and placing bets on 5, 6, and 8. It covers every roll except 7, giving you frequent payouts—but keep in mind that the house edge can be slightly higher here.
Remember, no system guarantees wins. The goal is to manage losses and stay in the game longer by being strategic and disciplined.
Tips for a Smooth Start at the Table
To get the most out of your early craps experiences:
- Watch a few rounds before betting to understand the flow.
- Avoid complex bets like proposition bets (e.g., betting on a single roll) until you’re more comfortable.
- Practice online or use demo versions to get a feel for betting and rolling without pressure.
- Keep your initial wagers low while you’re learning.
Craps tables can be social and fun, but they move fast—especially in live settings. Starting slow and sticking with safe bets builds confidence and improves your experience.
Craps is a game that rewards those who take time to understand its flow and betting options. While the table might seem overwhelming at first, the core rules are straightforward, and the best bets are easy to learn.
By focusing on simple wagers like the Pass Line and Odds bet, and using low-risk betting systems, you can enjoy the excitement of the game without getting lost in the chaos. With each roll, you’ll grow more comfortable and ready to explore advanced strategies down the road.