[RookieDude]

Watch the official...don't anticipate the play.

When the official blows the whistle (and hopefully raises his/her hand) stop the clock.

When the clock is stopped and you are preparing to start the clock, don't watch the play, watch the official for the "chop start".

When he/she chops the hand in a downward motion, that is when you start the clock.
This is particularly true during a free throw...watch the official with his/her hand raised, not the ball.

Interact with the officials and have fun...that's what it's all about...you guys are a team now...and thanks for helping out.