How to Read Patterns 2

Have you found a list of abbreviations? You'll probably not need it for long, most of the abbreviations are intuitive and don't take much practice to remember.
Patterns have suggested materials and hook sizes. You obviously don't want to start using size 10 thread on a pattern calling for worsted weight yarn, or vice versa. The listed hook size is a good suggestion of which size to use to make a first sample to test your gauge. Especially with clothing patterns, if you don't check your gauge and change the hook size as needed, you might not make the correct size. ALWAYS check your gauge. It will prevent later disappointments.
Most patterns start with: ch a number. Make that many chain stitches. Easy, right? Obvious, right?
Many of my doily patterns continue with: join with sl st in first ch to form circle. You've made the required number of chain stitches, now you make a slip stitch in the first chain stitch (the one farthest from your hook), which gives you a circle to crochet around.
Patterns which are worked in rows will say: turn. In (a number of ch st) from hook, work (a stitch). The number will change depending on which stitch is called for, and if there will be a space between stitches. For sc (single crochet), the 1 ch is not counted as a stitch, for all other stitches, the ch stitches are counted as 1 hdc (half double crochet), or 1 dc (double crochet), etc. This is often mentioned in the pattern to remind you.
Then, instructions to finish the row. I sometimes still have to read directions more than once to know what the writer meant. But, starting to make the stitches usually makes it clear. At the worst, I might have to rip out a few stitches.
Often at the end of a row or round, there will be a number of stitches or spaces. Count your work to be sure you have the same number. This helps you find mistakes more quickly. It's much less frustrating to rip out part of a row than it is to rip out several rows. Much quicker, too.
It might still look strange, but try it with a list of abbreviations beside the pattern. It's fine to work slowly at first. Being able to read patterns opens up so many more possible projects for you.