When you start learning about cooking, it's really important to get good at using knives. Knowing how to hold and use a knife correctly helps you work faster and stay safe. Here are some common mistakes beginners make and how to avoid them:

1. Wrong Way to Hold the Knife:

   • Many new cooks hold the knife too far back on the handle. This makes it harder to control and can cause slips.
   • The right way is to put your thumb and index finger on the blade and wrap the other fingers around the handle. This gives you better control.

2. Bad Body Position:

   • If you stand too far away from the cutting board, it can make it hard to balance and control what you're doing.
   • Try to stand about an arm's length away from the board. This helps you stay balanced and move your arms easily.

3. Ignoring Cutting Technique:

   • Beginners often think they need to cut fast, but it's more important to cut correctly.
   • Using a rocking motion when you cut helps you stay safe and control the knife better. Forgetting this can lead to slips and cuts.

4. Choosing the Wrong Cutting Surface:

   • Some people make the mistake of using the wrong kind of cutting board. Surfaces like glass or marble can ruin knife blades quickly.
   • Instead, use a good wooden or plastic cutting board. This helps your knives last longer.

5. Not Focusing Enough:

   • A lot of beginners get distracted while cutting. This can lead to accidents.
   • It's really important to pay attention to what you're doing to stay safe and work well.

By remembering these mistakes, new cooks can improve their knife skills. This means a safer and better experience in the kitchen!