Knife Sharpening - Simplest, Sharpest, Cheapest

One of the more practical skills everyone should have. The easiest method within reach for everyone without specialized or expensive tools. Takes some practice to get the technique down, but you'll be able to get nearly any knife razor sharp. From my experience as a professional cook, this will get your knife to a state that will cut anything you want to.

Couple things to note:
Once your knife is sharp you'll be able to maintain that cutting power by honing it periodically while using it. Every knife gets dull when used, no matter the quality of steel.
When choosing a knife steel/hone, make sure it still has some tooth to it, some of the more well worn ones are smooth and won't do much to actually sharpen. Also, stay away from the ones that are diamond grit, they are make a more rough edge and shorten your knife's life by removing too much material.
You can find a file and knife steel at most thrift stores, even when purchased new they are pretty inexpensive.