CindyB I agree with Stitchnripper go to the internet & find directions. I think all the electric pressure cookers operate basically the same way. You will not be disappointed believe me. I've had mine only a short while and it is the most used appliance in my kitchen. Gave my crockpot to my daughter to use in her soap making. I was afraid at first because I grew up hearing all the horror stories about cookers blowing up & spewing stuff all over the ceiling but the electric pots have built in safety mechanisms so we don't have to worry about that.