Reading a Crochet Diagram Instead of Directions

Many crochet patterns use either a Stitch Diagram alone, or combined with written Directions. People who use the Diagrams tell me that is so easy, once you get used to it. I have seen this referred to as Symbol Crochet, Blueprint Crochet, and even Japanese Crochet. Apparently it was very popular years ago and is now making a comeback.

This past week, I received an email newsletter from Crochet Me which included a Blog post about these Diagrams. Click on the link below, then click on Stitch Diagrams: Map and Key for Crochet Success, for the article.
http://www.crochetme.com/blogs/crochet_me/default.aspx
I think I will begin to try this method of reading a pattern as explained by Sarah Read, and I think I will start with this one. I'll just do a swatch, and if it works out, I can make a scarf from the pattern.

Here is another version, for Dummies (LOL). This one has lots of tips, too.
http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-follow-a-stitch-diagram-in-crochet.html

And still one more:
http://crochetanon.wordpress.com/2009/04/17/learn-to-crochet-from-a-stitch-diagram/

With these three explanations and tutorials, you should be able to figure out at least a simple crochet pattern diagram. I can't wait to try!