The square knot is by and far the easiest knot that Navy SEALs learn how to tie.  This is due to the fact that all Navy SEAL candidates will already have the basis of how to tie this knot embedded in their brains.  This is because a square knot is much like the knot you make when you learned how to tie your shoes.   If you can successfully tie a square knot, then you will be more apt to be able to learn how to tie all other knots.

Below you will find the basic steps of how to tie a square knot:

STEP #1: Start by taking your two ropes and placing them as detailed below.

STEP #2: Take the two ends of the ropes that you are using and cross them over as detailed in the diagram below.

STEP #3: Now that the two ropes are crossed, tie the first half knot, also known as a half hitch according to the diagram below.

STEP #4: Keep the same rope on top (in this example the red rope) as you cross the ropes over a second time and tie the second knot or half hitch.

STEP #5: Pull both ends evenly to form a square knot also known as a reef knot.

That’s all it takes!  Now be sure to practice this knot over and over again.  The more comfortable and knowledgeable you are at tying at a square knot, the more effective that you will be at tying all other knots that we will cover in this series.

Remember, as a Navy SEAL candidate, you will need to be able to tie this knot effectively and in various conditions.  During your Navy SEAL training you will also be required to tie this knot underwater.

In our next article in this series we will cover how to tie a bowline knot.