Best use: The “every knot,” a bowline creates a reliable but easily untied loop. If you only learn one knot, make this the one.

Best use: An intermediate tie for your guideline cave/wreck diving, a cinching line wrap can even be released without affecting the line.

Best use: One of the easiest to tie, the clove hitch is useful for hanging poles or attaching a rope to pole or bar.

Best use: Need a knot to stop fraying, for gripping or to mark a spot on a line? The Figure 8 Knot holds securely yet unties relatively easily. 

Best use: Have two dissimilar ropes and need to make one long rope? This bend allows you to link two ropes of unequal size (though it also works with ropes of the same size).

Best use: Tie a bowline by making a slipknot that spills into a sturdy bowline. Use it when you have ample line to work with and need to tie a loop quickly.

Best use: A knot that’s easy to tie or release (even under heavy weight), the taut-line hitch creates a strong and, just as important, adjustable loop.

Best use: Have cargo you need to tie down? The trucker’s hitch is ideal for cinching down a load.

Best use: Good for tying a mooring line to a post or ring (or a tree, even), this knot is especially useful because it can be tied one-handed.