So, never start off a game by placing pieces in the middle of the board. Rook, Knight, Bishop, King, Queen, Bishop, Knight, Rook. Now, the only thing I will need to warn you is that the Queen will always go on her color. On the next row you will simply put a full row of pawns, this goes for each side of the board. Now, that you're familiar with the game of Chess, go out and find yourself a board.
Some people play the game for hours or seconds, just start playing the game.
And remember the more you play the better you will get. Skill comes with practice, so if you want to be a great chess player go out and practice. If you lose your first couple of games, don't worry about it. You must always remeber that it is just a game. A game of strategy and wit.