Hi Sarah!
The regular Disney Dining Plan includes 1 table service credit, 1 quick service credit and 1 snack per a person per a night of your stay, and a refillable resort mug to use at your Disney Resort for the duration of your vacation.
Credits are pooled per a reservation and not actually by person. For instance if you have 2 adults and 2 children on the plan for a five night stay, you will have 10 Table service credits (adults), 10 table service credits (children), 20 quick service credits and 20 snack credits.
Here is what is allowed during meals in exchange for a table service credit:
Breakfast- 1 entree and 1 (non alcoholic)beverage or buffet
Lunch/Dinner- Entree, dessert, 1 (non alcoholic beverage) or buffet
*There are times when certain items may not be included in the dining plan, but they will clearly be stated on the menu.
Disney makes it very convenient to keep track of your remaining credits, they will be listed at the bottom of your receipt for every meal showing the amount of dining plan credits remaining and you can also check with your resort's concierge where they can also print your remaining credits.
When adding gratuity on the dining plan, it can be paid almost anyway that you prefer. Cash, credit, room charge (Key to the World Card) and even Disney gift cards can be used. They also include suggested tip amounts at the bottom of your bill to make it easy to calculate. Remember if you have a party of 6 or more, your bill will automatically include 18% gratuity. The dinner shows already have gratuity included so make sure to check your bill carefully before adding in gratuity. Please let us know if you have anymore questions!
Have a Magical Vacation!
Mandy