Place the first chopstick so that thicker part rests at the base of your thumb and the thinner part rests on the lower side of your middle fingertip. Bring your thumb forward so that it traps the stick firmly in place. At least two or three inches of chopstick should extend beyond your fingertip. Relax.

Now position the other chopstick so that it is held against the side of your index finger by the end of your thumb. Tap the ends of both sticks on the plate, while holding them at a slight angle to the table. Allow them to slide just a little so that the ends line up. Place a little pressure on the top chopstick. It will pivot on your index finger just above the second knuckle.

Remember: the bottom chopstick is stationary. The tip of the top chopstick will move towards the tip of the bottom chopstick.Encourage this. Hold those tips together firmly enough to grasp a piece of food and lift it off the plate. Place delicately into your waiting mouth. Although there's no need to stoop, you may wish to

lean over your plate a bit during your first attempts. It might save you a clean-up!