Hitch is a general term for a knot for attaching a rope to an object: I know of dozens of totally different hitches. Half-hitches, clove hitch, taut-line hitch

Hitch is a general term for a knot for attaching a rope to an object: I know of dozens of totally different hitches. Half-hitches, clove hitch, taut-line hitch, timber hitch; are all ones I can tie right off the top of my head with no review; and there are others I have forgotten details of like the camel hitch and pipe hitch. using the correct hitch is important; some slip in situations where another can hold well. Bowline is the only real loop making knot I use. Bends are for connecting two ropes: the most common is the square knot, and its variation with loops used for tying shoes, but the sheet bend is more generally useful since it can connect ropes of 2 different sizes, where square knots slip badly, and it is easier to untie; there are also more specialized bends that I have occasionally used. If you have been boating and rock climbing with your apparently limited knowledge, you have been lucky. Start with a few knots, then add to them as needed, it's not hard to learn dozens of very useful knots and hitches, as long as you don't try to do it all at once. Useful and ornamental ropework is a fascinating craft, which should appeal to hackers looking for something different to do, it can be both practical and good looking. The linked article mentions Ashley's Book of Knots which is a good reference, but Hervey Garrett Smith's "The Arts of the Sailor: Knotting, Splicing, and Ropework" has better descriptions for getting started and Graumont & Hensel's "Encyclopedia of Knots and Fancy Rope Work, 3rd ed" is the most complete reference.