Once you have made sure that you have the correct hammer for the job and have checked it over for damage and wear, you are ready to start. Take hold of the hammer as if you were shaking hands. To start off a more intricate job such as hammering in a nail, it may be best to grip the hammer close to the head. On the other hand, if you need to strike something with a lot of force, grip the hammer towards the end.
To start off hammering in a nail, place it in the desired position and either hold it with your thumb and forefinger (at the top of the nail) or place it in the magnetic nail holder on the hammer. Tap the nail lightly until it has sunk in a little and can stand on its own.
Swinging from the elbow gives more power for heavier jobs but you have more control when you swing from the wrist. Let the weight of the hammer do the work for you.