Measure the width of the stair tread, which is the part you step on. Start from the left and measure to the right on the tread. Write this figure down.
Place the end of the tape measure on the inside part of the step, where the tread and riser meet. Pull the tape measure down to the bottom of the riser of the next lower step where it meets the next lower tread. Add two inches to this figure and write it down.
Multiply the stair width by the length measurement. Write this figure down.
Count the number of stairs in the stairway.
Multiply the figure by the number of stairs. This will be the total square feet of carpet necessary for the project.
Divide the figure by 9 to get the total square yards of carpet needed.