How to Tie a Taut Line Hitch Step by Step

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Written Instructions — Taut Line Hitch

Loop around anchor Pass rope through or around the fixed point (stake, tree). Bring working end back.
First wrap around standing line Wrap working end once around the standing line going toward the anchor.
Second wrap — same direction Make a second wrap in the same direction above the first, closer to anchor.
Third wrap — below, locking Move below the first two wraps and make one wrap around the standing line.
Slide to adjust Slide toward anchor to loosen, away to tighten. Grips under load.

Two wraps inside plus one outside is the standard. The outside wrap is what creates the lock.
This knot only adjusts when unloaded — release tent stake tension before sliding.
In wet conditions the taut line hitch can loosen over time — check and retension guylines after rain.
The midshipman's hitch is a stronger variant that starts with the inside wraps going around two times.