The Chinese dine with chopsticks rather than forks and knives. if you are planning a trip to China, you should practice your chopstick skills before traveling. This is especially important for anyone who is traveling on business and will be dining with Chinese business associates.
The small ends of the chopsticks are used to pick up food on your plate. If you are taking food from a community bowl to place on your plate, use the large ends of the chopsticks if a serving utensil is not provided. Just as the fork, once it has touched your mouth, it should never be placed in a community bowl.