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If you wish to learn how to shoot a bow properly, you can follow the suggestions described below. Remember that a bow is a weapon, so take the necessary precautions to shoot safely, do not let children handle them and shoot in remote and empty areas where there is no danger of hitting anyone.
Step 1:

Develop with practice and consistency. All of us are not born archers and living in the modern world, we definitely have lost the manual skills and labor which made life in medieval and ancient times a little easier!! So unless you're an expert archer, start slow and practice constantly, shooting over small, safe distances, until you're ready to try bigger targets.

Step 2:

Position. When shooting, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, your toes should be in line with the arrow shaft. Move your front foot (depending on which hand you use to shoot) backwards by about 5-8 inches. This is the ideal position to be in before you begin shooting.

Step 3:

Line of vision. Draw an imaginary line from your position to the target; this is the shooting line for you. To make it easier you can place an arrow along this line to give you a clearer direction.

Step 4:

Load the arrow. Using the end fletching or feather of the arrow as a pointer, place the arrow on the bow such that it is firmly placed in the center of the bowstring, the shaft resting on the bow and is placed just above the hand gripping the bow.

Step 5:

Holding the bowstring. You should hold the bowstring with the index, middle and ring fingers of your hand, the end of the arrow should be settled comfortably between your first two fingers, the string should fit into the joint between the middle and ring fingers. You can use the thumb to adjust and stabilize the arrow between the bow string and your fingers.

Step 6:

Face the target. The arrow should be nestled in the ‘V' formed by your thumb and index finger, keep your arms straight and locked in position, the elbow should be rolled out slightly. Lift your head and direct your sight to the target.

Step 7:

Shooting the arrow. Raise the arm holding the bow, draw the bowstring with the arrow fixed, back till your thumb touches your jaw and the index finger is very close to your mouth. Using your shoulder and back muscles, pull the string, aim, hold your breath and release the arrow. While you can relax you fingers, pushing the string forward over your hand, remain in the shooting position until you see where the arrow has hit. Release the bow and relax your position once that's done and go check out your marksmanship.

Shooting a bow can be a simple task, but it involves constant practice and mastery over your shooting skills. Keep practicing until you are proficient with hitting the target, but take care not to hurt or injure any other person. Wear a finger glove otherwise the constant drill of moving the bowstring front and back on your fingers will chafe and skin your fingers. Take all the care and precautions as mentioned above and this can turn out to be a very interesting pastime or hobby for you.

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