When dining, what should you do with your napkin upon sitting at the table?

When you sit down at a dining table, the appropriate etiquette is to place your napkin on your lap. This practice serves multiple purposes: it helps to keep your clothing clean during the meal, it signals to others that you are ready to begin dining, and it reflects a level of sophistication and respect for the dining experience.

Placing the napkin on your lap also allows it to be conveniently available for use during the meal, which is helpful for wiping your hands or mouth as necessary. In more formal dining settings, following this protocol demonstrates an understanding of proper table manners, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the meal.

Other options do not align with standard dining etiquette. For instance, folding the napkin and placing it on the table, while it may be done occasionally in specific contexts, generally does not reflect the appropriate immediate action upon being seated. Keeping a napkin in your pocket is considered unsightly and impractical, and throwing it on the floor is disrespectful and unacceptable in any dining scenario.