How do I read knitting pattern abbreviations like k2tog, ssk, and yo?

Knitting abbreviations are essentially shorthand for specific maneuvers with your needles and yarn. Once you learn the pattern behind the letters, they become much easier to read. Here is what those three common terms mean:

• k2tog (Knit 2 Together): This is a basic right-leaning decrease. Insert your right needle into the next two stitches on the left needle at the same time (as if to knit), wrap the yarn, and pull it through both loops. You have now turned two stitches into one.
• ssk (Slip, Slip, Knit): This is a left-leaning decrease. Slip the next two stitches one at a time from the left needle to the right needle (as if to knit). Then, insert the tip of your left needle into the front of those two stitches and knit them together through the back loops.
• yo (Yarn Over): This is an increase that creates a decorative hole (an eyelet). Simply bring the yarn from the back of your work to the front, between the needles, and then bring it over the right needle to the back again, ready to knit the next stitch.

A helpful tip: most knitting patterns include a "Key" or "Abbreviations" section at the very beginning or end of the document. If a pattern uses a unique or less common abbreviation, it will almost always be defined there. If you're ever stuck, searching for a video tutorial for the specific abbreviation is a great way to see the movement in action.