Remove large debris from the space where the carpeting will go. Sweep the floor with a stiff broom to remove loose debris and dust.
Measure the room's width and length with a measuring tape. Add 1 inch to the width and length measurements. This extra inch on all sides will allow you to tuck the carpeting under the baseboards for a neat look. Multiply the width and length totals together to calculate the total square footage.
Cut the carpeting to size according to your measurements with a sharp utility knife.
Stick double-sided carpet tape around all edges of the room, keeping the protective paper on the top side of the tape intact. Lay several crosses of double-sided tape within the middle of the area, spacing them up to 4 inches apart depending on size of area.
Lay the carpeting on the floor of the work area. Check that the carpeting fits correctly in its designated place.
Pull back carefully on one side of the carpeting, folding half the carpet back on itself. Do not slide the carpet of place while pulling.
Peel off the protective paper on the exposed double-sided tape, and gently lay the carpet on top of the tape. Use your hands to smooth the carpeting over the tape to ensure a strong grip. Repeat this process for the other half of the carpeting.
Push the excess carpeting under the baseboards with a pry bar. Take care not to mark the baseboard wood with the pry bar.