Setting a correct table is just a matter of common sense. Here's how it works: Every piece is laid out in order of use.the first piece to be used is furthest away from the plate. thus, you start from the outside, allowing the proper utensils to be used progressively through each course. When setting a table, set only pieces that are to be used...never any that won't be. Here's the basic rule to follow: Forks go to the left of the plate. Knives and spoons to the right. The cutting edge of the knife always faces the plate. The bread and butter plate, or side-plate, goes above the forks. The spreader lies across it but this is usually omitted at formal dinners. The water goblet goes above the tip of the knife. The wine glass goes to its right...slightly forward. The salad fork, if salad is being served, is placed inside from the dinner fork. First-in- order-of-use determines the position of other utensils...such as cocktail forks, soup spoons etc. If coffee is to be served, you may bring the coffee spoon with the coffee itself. Dessert utensils may be brought with the dessert... or placed horizontally above the plate, continental-style.