I'm knitting a top in garter stitch. Pattern tells you to start short row shaping on first side and states:

Short Row 1(RS): K5, w&t. Knit to end.
Short Row 3: K7, w&t. Knit to end.
Short Row 5: K9, w&t. Knit to end.
etc.

I've read several books and have searched the internet but am still confused. For first row, do I knit 5, slip 1(purlwise), bring yarn to front, slip stitch back to left hand needle. Turn, Knit to end. Then continue in the same manner for row 3.

Please help.

That's one way to W&T. This article may help Short rows at knitty (http://knitty.com/ISSUEsummer03/FEATbonnetric.html)