• Find a good incense holder
  Something that can collect all the ashes and can hold the stick securely.
  It doesn't matter whether the holder holds the incense stick vertically, diagonally or horizontally.
• Light the coated end of the stick with a match or lighter, or you can even use a stove flame.
  Hold the flame to the stick until it holds its own flame.
• Let the flame burn for a few seconds.
• Gently blow out the flame.
  You should see a red tip or 'cherry' burning on the stick. Soon, smoke will rise and your incense will start to smell.
• Gently push the non-coated end of the incense stick into the holder.
• Re-light if there's no 'cherry' or smoke.
• Finished.