1) Find end of string. 2) Grasp firmly. 3) Give gentle tug (to avoid rope burn). If nothing happens, 50/50 chance, try other end of string. Bag still sealed? Proceed to step 4. 4) Find utility scissors and cut just under the string seal. This procedure is based on years of opening (or trying to) kitty litter, birdseed, and, last but not least, charcoal, though the last Kingsford I bought had an "Easy Tear" paper strip instead of the string, not that it worked all that much better, tore off 1/3 of the way accross, see step 4. You are not alone.