It’s the reason kids yell “Shotgun!” when they run down the driveway, the motivation for getting to the movie at least 20 minutes before it starts, and the excuse waiters use for not taking you to your table until your whole party is present. Seating matters. And getting a good seat really matters. But where should you sit in a restaurant? Are airplane exit rows all they’re made out to be? And where do the movie critics sit to watch a blockbuster? Real Simple asked the experts for their picks — on everything from baseball stadiums to the ballet — and learned that the best seat isn’t always the most coveted or even the most expensive one. Take this advice, take a seat, and know that you have a good one.