Understanding Craps Terminology

Craps is a dice game with its own unique vocabulary and mathematical principles. Understanding the terminology is essential for anyone looking to learn the game, calculate odds, and make informed betting decisions. This glossary covers the most important terms, concepts, and probability principles used in craps.

The game of craps revolves around rolling two six-sided dice and predicting outcomes based on mathematical probability. Each roll combination has a specific frequency of occurrence, which determines the odds and house edge for various bets. By mastering these concepts, players can better understand why certain bets are more favorable than others from a statistical perspective.

Key Craps Terms

Come Out Roll

The first roll in a craps round. Results of 7 or 11 win immediately (Natural), while 2, 3, or 12 lose immediately (Craps Out). Any other number establishes the Point.

Point

An established number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) rolled during the come out roll. The shooter must roll this number again before rolling a 7 to win Pass Line bets.

Pass Line Bet

A fundamental craps bet where players wager the shooter will roll a 7 or 11 on the come out, or make the point before rolling a 7. House edge is approximately 1.4%.

Don't Pass Bet

The opposite of the Pass Line. Players win if the shooter rolls 2 or 3 on come out, or if a 7 is rolled before the point. The 12 is a push. House edge is approximately 1.36%.

Odds Bet

An additional bet made after a point is established. These bets have no house edge and are paid at true odds. Four and Ten pay 2:1, Five and Nine pay 3:2, Six and Eight pay 6:5.

Snake Eyes

Rolling two ones (1-1) for a total of 2. This is a craps result on the come out roll and loses Pass Line bets. Probability: 1 in 36 combinations.

Boxcars

Rolling two sixes (6-6) for a total of 12. Also a craps result on come out roll. Probability: 1 in 36 combinations. Probability of rolling 2 or 12: 2 in 36.

Seven Out

Rolling a seven after the point is established. This ends the shooter's turn and loses Pass Line bets. Seven is the most common roll: 6 ways out of 36 possible combinations (16.67%).

Probability and Odds Reference

Dice Probability Basics

With two six-sided dice, there are 36 possible outcomes (6 × 6 = 36). Each outcome has equal probability of occurring: 1/36 or approximately 2.78%. However, when considering the sum of the dice, different totals have different probabilities based on how many ways they can be formed.

Most Likely Rolls: Seven is the most frequently rolled number (6 ways to roll it: 1-6, 2-5, 3-4, 4-3, 5-2, 6-1). This is critical in craps because seven wins on come out but loses after the point is established, which is why it appears prominently in strategy and betting decisions.

Point Probability: Four and Ten can each be rolled 3 ways (probability 3/36 or 8.33%). Five and Nine can each be rolled 4 ways (probability 4/36 or 11.11%). Six and Eight can each be rolled 5 ways (probability 5/36 or 13.89%). Understanding these frequencies helps explain why bets with different payouts are used to compensate for varying probabilities.

House Edge Explanation

The house edge is the mathematical advantage the casino has over players on specific bets. For example, the Pass Line has a 1.4% house edge, meaning over many bets, players expect to lose 1.4 cents for every dollar wagered. The Don't Pass bet has a slightly lower house edge at approximately 1.36%. Odds bets have zero house edge, making them mathematically the best bets in craps.

Table Etiquette and Responsible Gaming

Craps Table Etiquette: When playing craps, always handle dice with one hand and ensure they hit the back wall of the table. Never use language that might disturb other players, and respect the shooter's ritual and concentration. Never make negative comments about outcomes, as craps is considered a communal game where all players have interest in the game flow.

Bankroll Management: Establish a budget before playing and stick to it. Never gamble with money needed for essential expenses. Set win and loss limits for each session. Responsible gaming means understanding that the house always has a mathematical advantage and that gambling is entertainment, not income.

Education is one of the best tools for responsible gaming. By understanding probability, odds, and the mathematics behind each bet, players make more informed decisions and are less likely to make impulsive wagers based on emotion rather than logic.

Additional Resources

Strategy Guide