If you get looks of exasperation whenever you stammer out a drink order, take this crash course in bar-speak.

You will need a grasp of liquor and cocktail terminology.

Step 1. Learn the correct terms to specify your drink's temperature.

Ordering it "neat" means the liquor will be served right out of the bottle at room temperature.

Ask for it "on the rocks" and it will be poured over ice.

Order it "straight up" and the liquor will come at whatever temperature is customary, with no ice.

Step 2. To get two shots of alcohol in your drink, as opposed to the standard one shot pour, ask the bartender to "make it a double."

Step 3. Want a glass of water or a beer with your drink?

Request the shot with a "water back" or "beer back."

Step 4. When ordering a mixed drink, always name the liquor first, as in, "a scotch and soda, please."

Step 5. If you want a specific brand of liquor, say so, as in, "a Ketle One and tonic."

This is known as a "call drink."

If you don't name a brand, you'll get a "well drink" made with the bar's default liquor, most often a cheaper bottle.

Naming an expensive brand of liquor makes your drink "premium" or "top-shelf," and you'll pay a steeper price.

Step 6. If you want just a bit of mixer, ask for a "splash," as in, "scotch with a splash of soda."

Want more juice or soda in your drink?

Put "tall" in front of your drink order.

The drink will have the same amount of booze, but will have more mixer because it will be served in a taller glass.

Step 7. If you'd like a piece of lemon or lime peel in the drink, order it "with a twist."

Step 8. Leave a tip.

A generous one makes up for any boneheaded ordering.

Did you know nearly 50 percent of bartenders polled said that customers order fewer, but stronger, drinks during a recession.