[cappyjon431]

For the most part the servers I have encountered in TV have been excellent so I usually end up tipping 20%, rounding up to the next dollar.

My general rule is:
20%+ for good service
15% for average service
10% for below average service.

I say this is a general rule because occasionally what appears on the surface to be "bad" service is actually not the server's fault but the fault of the kitchen staff and in those cases I try to be understanding and tip 15-20%.

I also always try to tip in cash because I don't want taxes to be deducted from my server's tips and I want to make sure they have access to ALL of the tip I have left behind.

I also try to always make sure that I hand the tip to the server or I will actually wait around and see them pick it up. Many years ago I went on a blind date with a girl who took a $5 tip off the table and replaced it with a $1 bill (needless to say I never dated her again!). Ever since then I have been very careful to insure that I see that the server actually gets the tip. It is way too easy for other customers or busboys to pick up the tip and rip off the server.