What does it mean to work 39stitches and slip to stitch holder

Question

I just started to knitting and don't understand it, it said work 39 stitches and slip holder, binder off 20 stitches for neck

Answer 1

Sounds to me like the pattern is too advanced for you.  But, all you do is work the 39 stitches and then slide them onto either a large stitch holder or a double pointed needle.  Size doesn't matter.  It's only temporary.  Then you bind off the 20.  That starts the opening for the neck.  The 39 stitches are for the top of the sleeve.