Sometimes it is not even the server's fault. There could be a problem in the kitchen too (among a million other things). Also, servers usually tip out. At work, they tip out to the bussers and the bar. Some places tip out to the kitchens as well. So yeah, between the tip outs and taxes, it ca b hard to make any decent money if they are poorly tip. I know the servers at work have been tipped poorly before and it is not because they gave bad service either.

If I notice it is busy then I will tip good still. I understand well enough being overloaded. Like once me and my friend went to a restaurant and the computers were down, it was busy and they were getting audited by the franchise. Yeah, not cool day for them. The waiter was nice and all and apologized and me and my friend were like, we understand. Then we gave a nice tip.

One complaint I have heard from servers is that students will go "Sorry, I'd tip but I am a student". I think that's dumb. If I go out to eat, I make sure I have enough to tip too. Can't tip, won't bother. I am a poor student too, so I really don't see their point.