1) Chain is cleaned and oiled
2) Check to see that front derailleur is 5mm above large chain ring
3) Shift to lower chain ring and adjust limit screw to move cage over inner ring
4) Shift to upper chain ring and adjust limit screw to move cage over outer ring
5) Adjust cable tension to suit.
I use moly disulfide CV joint grease to lube cables. If you are concerned about health warnings, wear gloves.
Our local library has several books on mountain bike repair.
Unless someone has put a hex on it, a machine is not out to get you
What tyre pressure are you running?