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Craps 101: Understanding the Table and Best Bets

Craps has one of the most intimidating tables in the casino, covered in bets with names like “Yo” and “Hardways.” Underneath the noise, though, it also has some of the best odds in the building — if you know which bets to make.

The Pass Line Bet

This is the foundation of the game. You bet the shooter will win, either by rolling a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, or by rolling their “point” number again before a 7. It carries a house edge of just 1.41%.

Odds Bets: The Best Bet in the Casino

Once a point is established, you can back your Pass Line bet with an “odds” bet that pays true odds with zero house edge — the only bet in a casino where the house has no built-in advantage. Always take max odds if your bankroll allows it.

Bets to Avoid

Proposition bets in the center of the table — Any 7, Hardways, and similar one-roll bets — carry house edges from 9% up to 16%. They’re exciting but statistically poor value. Stick to Pass Line plus odds for the best session-long value.