The "American" or English version holds the yarn in the right hand -- controlling the tension with your right hand and wrapping the yarn around the needle. The "European" or Continental version holds the yarn stationary in the left hand -- controlling the tension with the left index finger and using the right needle to pull the yarn through. Many people feel this method is the quickest way to knit -- I suppose because there's less time spent moving your right hand around to wrap the yarn? I guess it depends on how you were taught and what feels best for you [Smile]