Long time knitter (mum taught me when I was 10 yrs old), picked up a pattern with an instruction I am not sure about yarn front or back.
5th Row: K3, *sl1, with yarn at back k1, repeat from * to last 2 sts, k2
6th Row: k2, * k1, with yarn at front s 1, with yarn at back repeat from * to last 3 stitches, K3.
Now I assume the 5th row means I slip one as per a purl motion (with the yarn at the back) and then knit one conventionally (with the yarn at the back). Which seems a little pointless to state where the yarn is, if it stays in the back all the time. Do I have that right?
Also the 6th row, I see to be bouncing between yarn in front for the slip 1, then yarn in back for the knit 1. Is this right?
Yes, you’re correct, the yarn at back in row 5 seems superfluous but is perhaps just intended as a reminder due to row 6 having the forward and back instruction. Some patterns add a bit more information than an experienced knitter needs which can lead to confusion but perhaps makes it easier for a newer knitter.
I imagine row 5 is a RS row and row 6 a WS row, meaning all the yarn floats made by slipping stitches are kept to the WS of the fabric to hide them (although it could be the opposite and the floats are part of the stitch pattern on the RS). The stitches are making a variation on a garter rib with it being knit both sides. Sounds interesting. Maybe you can show us a pic of a sample.