Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Business Etiquette Practice Test

When eating, how should your fork be held?

1. Like a spade

2. Like a pencil

3. Like a knife

4. Like a spoon

The correct answer is: Like a pencil

Holding your fork like a pencil is the correct approach because it allows for better control and precision while eating. With this grip, your index finger presses against the top of the handle, providing the necessary leverage to maneuver food effectively and accurately to your mouth. This position also promotes a relaxed grip, reducing fatigue during meals and contributing to more graceful dining manners. Using other grips, such as resembling a spade or a knife, would not offer the same level of dexterity and could lead to awkward movements while navigating different types of food. Similarly, holding the fork like a spoon does not appropriately utilize the fork's prongs, which are essential for piercing and picking up food items. Therefore, holding the fork like a pencil is the most effective and etiquette-appropriate method when dining.