In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast, sugar, and salt in 1 1/2 cups of warm water.
Stir in flour, and knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes.
Place in a greased bowl, and turn to coat the surface. Cover, and let rise for one hour.
Combine 2 cups of warm water and baking soda in an 8-inch square pan. Line baking sheets with parchment paper, I used 4 baking sheets.
After the dough has risen, cut it into 12 pieces. Roll each piece into a 3-foot rope, pencil-thin, or thinner. Twist into a pretzel shape, and dip into the baking soda solution. Place onto parchment-covered baking sheets, and let rise for 15 to 20 minutes.
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden brown. Brush with melted butter, and sprinkle with coarse salt, garlic salt or cinnamon sugar.
I dipped the pretzels into an 8-inch square pan with melted butter in it and then sprinkled salt on them.