This is the first project I give a raw beginner. It involves several of the basic operations: drawing out, tapering, bending, straightening and cutting.
For detailed instructions:
tentstakes
Article by Steve McGrew 
A Beginner’s First Project: Rebar Tent Stakes
Article by Steve McGrew of
Incandescent Ironworks, Ltd.
Custom-designed, hand-forged architectural ironwork, ornamental ironwork and furnishings for homes, gardens and businesses, and tools for the artist-blacksmith. Also offering introductory blacksmithing classes.