Using this Fellowes shredder is easy. First, plug it in. Then, you can put up to 6 sheets of paper at a time into the shredder slot. It can also handle staples, paper clips, and plastic credit cards. But don't overload it with too many items at once. When you're done, use the patented Safety Lock to disable the shredder for safety. For maintenance, clean the shredder regularly to keep it working well. You can use a soft brush to remove paper dust. If you notice it's getting slow or having trouble shredding, it might need some lubrication. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for lubrication products. And make sure to empty the waste bin when it's full to avoid jams.