[1]: 208  It is a good knot with which to commence a slightly fancy sheepshank.

[1]: 210  It is also used as a trick knot due to the speed with which it can be made.

[1]: 406 Tom fool's knot is believed to be the knot epankylotos brokhos described by the 1st Century Greek physician Heraklas.

[2] It is formed by making two loops, not exactly overlaying each other.

The inner half of each hitch or loop is pulled under and through the outer side of the opposite loop.