Intro: Why Craps Is a Fun and Winnable Game for Beginners
If you’ve ever walked by a loud, energetic table at a casino and wondered what all the cheering was about, chances are it was a game of craps. At first glance, craps can seem intimidating with all the dice-rolling, bets being thrown around, and fast-paced action. But once you understand the basics, it becomes one of the most exciting and beginner-friendly games on the casino floor.
In this guide, I’ll show you a simple way to play craps using only even money bets. This strategy helps you avoid risky side bets and focus on smart, consistent play that gives you the best chance of walking away a winner.
The Mindset You Need to Win at Craps
Before you start rolling dice, it’s important to have the right mindset. Craps is a social game, but your focus should always be on your own bankroll and strategy.
Leave the Chaos to Others
You don’t have to understand every bet on the table to play well. Most players lose because they make complicated bets with bad odds. As a beginner, you’re going to stick to the simple bets that actually give you a chance to win.
Patience Is Your Best Friend
Craps can move quickly, but that doesn’t mean you have to. Wait for the right bets, ignore the distractions, and don’t chase losses.
Set Your Expectations
Like with any casino game, you won’t win every time. But using even money bets and smart bankroll management gives you the edge to win consistently over time.
The Only Craps Bets You Need to Know as a Beginner
Forget all the colorful boxes and side bets for now. These are the only bets you need to understand and use:
- Pass Line Bet
This is the most basic and beginner-friendly bet. You place your chip on the “Pass Line” before the come-out roll (the first roll of a new round). If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, you win. If they roll a 2, 3, or 12, you lose. Any other number becomes the “point.” - Don’t Pass Bet
This is the opposite of the Pass Line. You’re betting that the shooter will lose. It can feel awkward because you’re betting against the table, but it actually offers slightly better odds. Use this if you want a more conservative play style. - Come Bet
This is like placing a new Pass Line bet after the point is established. It follows the same rules: win on 7 or 11, lose on 2, 3, or 12, or establish a new point. - Don’t Come Bet
Just like the Don’t Pass, this bet is placed after the point and acts like a new Don’t Pass line. Again, slightly better odds, but you’re betting against the shooter.
Beginner Tip: Stick to just the Pass Line (or Don’t Pass) until you’re comfortable. These are low-risk, even money bets that give you the best odds in the casino.
The Simple Betting Strategy That Keeps You in Control
Your entire game plan should revolve around making the safest bets and keeping your bankroll intact. Here’s how to do it:
Start with the Pass Line
Place your minimum bet on the Pass Line. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, you win even money. If they roll a 2, 3, or 12, you lose. If a point is set (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10), the goal is for that number to be rolled again before a 7.
Always Take the Odds Bet
Once a point is set, the dealer will allow you to place an “Odds Bet” behind your Pass Line bet. This is the only bet in the casino with no house edge. You should always take full odds when your bankroll allows. It pays true odds based on the point:
- 6 or 8 pays 6:5
- 5 or 9 pays 3:2
- 4 or 10 pays 2:1
Avoid the Temptation of Side Bets
As you get more comfortable, you’ll see other players making bets in the center of the table (like Hardways or the Field). These bets look exciting, but they have a high house edge and will eat up your bankroll fast.
Use a Flat Betting or Conservative Progression Strategy
You can bet the same amount each time (flat betting), or increase your bet slightly after a win and return to the minimum after a loss. Avoid doubling your bet after a loss (Martingale) in craps, since hot and cold streaks are harder to track.
Table Etiquette and What to Expect as a New Player
Walking up to a craps table for the first time can be nerve-wracking. Here’s what you need to know:
- Wait for a new round to start before placing a Pass Line bet.
- Put your chips on the table and tell the dealer your bet; don’t hand chips directly to them.
- Don’t touch the dice with both hands or throw them off the table.
- Feel free to ask the dealers questions—they’re used to helping new players.
Reaching Your Daily Goal—And Sticking to It
Just like with Blackjack, the key to long-term success is having a clear plan and goal before you start playing.
Set a Win Goal
Decide before you play how much you want to win. $100 to $300 is a realistic range for beginners starting with a modest bankroll.
Set a Loss Limit
Equally important is deciding how much you can afford to lose. Once you hit that number, walk away. This protects you from chasing losses and losing control.
Track Your Results
Use your phone or a notepad to record your bets and outcomes. This helps you stay disciplined and improve your strategy over time.
Final Thoughts: Craps Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
Craps may look overwhelming at first, but it’s actually one of the best games for beginners when you focus on even money bets. You don’t need to learn every betting option. Just master the basics, play smart, and enjoy the ride.
With a little practice and the right mindset, you’ll feel confident walking up to the craps table and placing your bets like a pro. Stick to the Pass Line and odds bets, avoid the noise in the middle of the table, and set goals before you play. That’s the secret to having fun and winning.
FAQ: Craps Strategy for Beginners
Q1: What’s the best bet for a beginner at craps?
The Pass Line bet is the best starting point. It’s simple, low-risk, and has one of the lowest house edges in the casino.
Q2: Should I always take the odds bet?
Yes, if your bankroll allows. The odds bet is the only bet in the casino with no house edge.
Q3: Is it okay to just watch before joining?
Absolutely. Watching a few rounds before jumping in is a great way to learn the flow of the game.
Q4: What’s the minimum amount I need to start playing?
Most tables have a $5 or $10 minimum. A $200 bankroll is a good starting point for a beginner.
Q5: Why avoid side bets like the Field or Hardways?
These bets have high house edges and are designed to look fun but lose money over time.