Which knot secures a rope to a post or cleat?

• A. Clove Hitch
• B. Bowline
• C. Sheet Bend
• D. Square Knot

Answer: (A)

When you need to fasten a rope to a post or cleat, you want a knot that grips the object and is quick to tie and untie. The clove hitch does exactly that: you wrap the rope around the post twice in the same direction and then tuck the working end under the last wrap. The two turns create friction against the post, so under load the rope stays snug and aligned along the object. It’s particularly handy because you can tie it fast and, once loaded, it resists slipping along the post.

This works better for this purpose than the other options. A bowline forms a fixed loop at the rope’s end, which is excellent for making a loop you can pull tight but isn’t a direct, simple way to secure a line to a post without additional steps. A sheet bend is for joining two ropes, not attaching a rope to an object. A square knot is used to join rope ends and isn’t reliable for securing a line to a post or cleat under load. For extra security, you might add a half hitch or similar backup to prevent slipping, especially if the line will bear significant load.