Which of the following is NOT a variation of the square knot?

The clove hitch is a distinct knot that serves a different purpose compared to variations of the square knot. While the square knot is designed primarily for tying two pieces of rope together and consists of two overhand knots, the clove hitch is used for securing a rope to a post or a tree. It consists of two half-hitches around the object and allows for quick attachment, making it unsuitable as a variation of the square knot.

On the other hand, the reef knot (or square knot) is the standard name for the knot in question, and the granny knot is considered a misconfiguration of it. The thief knot, while less commonly cited, is also recognized as a variation of the square knot due to its similar formation and function. Understanding these differences is crucial for proper knot application within rigging and other practical situations.