Los Angeles, Jan 14 (IANS): What's the difference between the salad fork and the dinner fork? If you're one of those who gets confused at a formal dinner, just remember a few simple rules and you'll be sorted to enjoy your meal without thinking much.

Eonline.com reports rules that need to be followed while dining like a royal.

* Do not switch knives and forks: The English never switch their knives and forks, keeping their knives on the right and their forks on the left. After finishing their meal, the knife and fork are laid parallel to each other across the right of the plate.

* Start from the outside and work your way in: The salad fork is located to the furthest left spot, while the soup spoon is located to the furthest right. Always start with the outside utensils first, then work your way in towards your dinner fork and dinner knife.

* Keep your hands in your lap: When you aren't eating or using your silverware, hands should never be placed or rested on the table. They are to remain in your lap.

* Pass dishes to your left: Never pass dishes to your right; they always go in the opposite direction when passing a plate down.

* Maintain your posture and rest between bites: Never lower your head down to eat. Bring your utensil to your mouth, then rest your cutlery on your plate or bowl between bites. When finished, place them together at the central bottom part.

* Don't point your utensils: Don't gesture towards others with your cutlery and quietly set them down when not in use. Refrain from scraping your plate or bowl to prevent causing a disturbance at the table.

* Maintain your space: Always leave your fellow dining companions ample elbow space and do not reach over them. Always ask for something to be passed in your direction.