The M1L (which stands for "Make One Left") is a left-leaning increase stitch. It is worked into the horizontal strand of yarn (or "bar") between the first stitch on the left needle and the last stitch on the right. For a right-leaning increase, see M1R.
EnglishContinental
Insert the tip of the left needle from front to back through the horizontal strand (or “bar”) between the next and last stitch to be worked:
This forms a loop on the left needle. With the right needle, knit this strand through the back loop.
The make-one increases can be a bit tricky to get the hang of. It’s often difficult to insert the right needle through the back leg of the strand, since it’s not a true "loop."
I use my left index finger to pull the strand backward on the needle, opening up a little space. This may take some practice!
