A pendulum is a way to get YES or NO answers to questions or to help you find items, dowsing etc.
For beginners you need to determine what YOUR responses represent. Your responses may vary from another person's but that is fine - what works for you is all that counts.
Take your pendulum and hold the chain between your thumb and first finger, about 2.5 - 3 inch from the weight at the end.
Sit quietly for a few moments to centre yourself and make a connection with your pendulum. I like to ask my angels if they are happy to work with me (as I work with my Angels whenever I work with my Pendulum). You should feel relaxed.
Take a deep cleansing breath and ask the pendulum to clearly show you what a "Yes" reply looks like. Don't move the pendulum, allow it to move on its own. Take notice of the direction the pendulum moves. If there isn't a very strong response, you may need to stop it, and repeat, "Please show me what a Yes response will be".
Then repeat for "What a NO response will be".
Ensure that you are comfortable with your pendulum before you proceed.
To ensure you have the right connection, ask it some questions that you know the answers to.
ie: Is my name Vicki? the answer should be yes...
Do I drive a red car? the answer should be yes or no according to what you drive
This step is important to ensure you are connected. If this connection is not right. Break it by holding the pendulum in your hand. Sitting with it for a few moments. Then start again.
Good luck and enjoy your many years of wonderful Pendulum experience.