Beginner Crochet Terminology

Acronym Meaning
approx approximately
beg begin(s)(ning)
bpdc back post double crochet
btwn between
cc contrasting color
ch(s) chain(s)
ch-space space previously made
cont continue
dbl double
dtr double treble (triple)
dc double crochet
dec decreas(e)(s)(ing)
esc Extended single crochet
fpdc front post double crochet
fpsc front post single crochet
fptc front post triple crochet
hdc half double crochet
inc increas(e)(s)(ing)
MC main color
meas measure(s)
pat pattern
pm place marker (alternatively sc – stitch marker)
rem remain(s)(ing)
rep repeat(s)(ing)
rnd(s) round(s)
RS right side
rsc reverse single crochet
sc single crochet
sc2tog single crochet 2 together
sk skip
sl slip
sl st slip stitch
sm stitch marker (alternatively pm – place marker)
sp(s) space(s)
sq(s) square(s)
st(s) stitch(es)
t-ch turning chain
tog together
tr treble (triple) crochet
WS wrong side
yo yarn over
Note that abbreviations may vary slightly from pattern to pattern. Another good reason to read every pattern all the way through prior to starting your project.

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