Push the button “Pressure Cook”. Some models say “Manual”. Push the +/- button until the number reaches 8. (It will cook for 8 minutes.) It will take about 8 minutes to come up to pressure, then the IP (Instant Pot) will beep and start counting down from 8 minutes. After 8 minutes, it will beep again. At this point, you can push the pressure valve to Venting for quick release, or, let it release pressure naturally-which means do nothing at this time. It will take about 12 minutes for the pressure pin to drop letting you know you can open the lid. If you have very large chicken thighs, the natural release is a good idea but I didn’t notice much difference. The thighs were tender with both methods.