Not understanding the stitches in this pattern!

[kelbel]

I am working om this pattern (well, attempting):
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/vite-cowl

Right in the beginning it has you cast on 18 stitches, but doesn't the first row require more than that? This is probably just me missing some key factor here, but any input would be much appreciated! Thanks!

Cast on 18 sts
Row 1: K11, ssk, yo, k1, yo, p2, yo, k2tog

[knitcindy]

No, it looks like 18 exactly!!!

K 11
2 for the ssk
K