Espresso machines generally require that an amount of coffee be tamped into the scooped and placed into the machine. Water is added to the machine before the coffee is placed. You then place the shot glasses on the platform and turn on the machine to pull the shots. Different machines may have specific bells and whistles, including the grinding, measuring and tamping of the coffee. The best thing is to track down an user's guide for the machine. You can likely download the manual online or order from the manufacturer.