Understanding a knitting pattern can be easy only if you know how to break the code. All knitting patterns you find will usually follow the same structure, the one I am about to outline here for you. The abbreviations used can confuse at times but if you have the right knowledge before you set to read a pattern you are unlikely to find it difficult.

The set of instructions will first establish visually what the finished product will look like. For this, you will generally find a picture of the finished fabric at the very beginning.

Along with this, you may also find specifications regarding what the yarn quality is like and the needle size details.

Skill Level
Knitting is all about skill. It is very important to pick the correct skill level for yourself so you can pick an appropriate pattern. The skill levels are generally divided into beginners, intermediate and advanced. Here is a guide to what each level may contain:

Beginners: This level will generally contain projects that do not use very complex stitches and combinations. These patterns do not generally require a lot of shaping either. Scarves, potholders, mats etc. would fall under this category.

Intermediate: This skill level is a little more complex than beginners. The patterns become more complex and combinations of stitches and the project becomes larger. The process involves a lot more shaping and assembling. Sweaters, socks, caps etc will fall under this category.

Advanced: Here you will find the most complex of patterns and shapes. Pictures, designs and complicated shapes would fall under this category.

Small, Medium or Large?
Make sure that you read the size listed before the instructions carefully. The general size (small, medium or large) will be mentioned at the beginning with the detailed size following the general. Please make sure that you make whatever alterations in the size that you need to fit your requirements.

All You Need For the Pattern
As I said earlier, you will find details of pattern specifications listed here. The type of yarn and the needle size is an essential for any comprehensive set instructions for a pattern. You must ensure that you buy material of the exact specifications for a perfect result.

Gauge
Read the gauge instructions carefully to cast the exact number of stitches you need, this will help you avoid chaos and confusion in case your result does not match the measurements.

Finally, remember to make a read through the instructions of the pattern thoroughly and step-by-step. Following these instructions should make is so much easier for you to start knitting that wonderful pattern you found the other day!