Lattice Scarf Pattern Help Needed

I’m trying to get started on this lattice scarf


(free daily pattern)

I’m okay with the 4 rows of garter stitch but when I get to the row one instructions the math isn’t adding up.

If I’ve only CO 18 stitches can I do the following?

K2, (K2tog,yo) 3 times, K1, (K2tog, yo) 3 times, K3

I get to the second set of (K2tog, yo) 3 times and can only do it twice before I run out of anything to knit on the left needle.

Am I not supposed to yo then knit the stitch? Or am I supposed to just yo (without knitting) and start with the K2tog? I think I just answered my own question but would still like your thoughts.

Thanks for your help.

You do not knit a st when doing a YO, just wrap the yarn around the needle and k2tog.

You only do the yo without knitting it and you will end up with exactly 18 sts. You will purl the yo on row 2 and that’s how you’ll get the lacy pattern.