I don't know what type of awning you have, but I'll explain the most common one.
Most campers come with a metal stick with a hoop on one end and a hook on the other.....it should be in the neighborhood of 3-4 foot long. This is the tool needed to release the up/down switch on your awning.
First, find the knobs for the support arms, they should be facing the outside wall of your camper. Loosen these knobs. Some models have clips that hold these arms in place during motion, unclip them before loosening the knobs if they are present. Just squeeze them and pull towards the camper wall.
Next, find the switch at the end of the canopy cylinder, mine is on the right side facing the canopy. This is where the stick comes in handy, but it could be accomplished without it....might need a step ladder. Flip the switch down.
Next, find a small strap in the center of the canopy. This is where the hook end of the stick comes in handy. If no stick, use the ladder again to hook your finger through the loop. Pull the strap down and away from your camper. As you pull you should here clicking. When fully extended you will notice that all the material is exposed. The material should be loose an untaught.
Next, extend the support arms to the end of main supports. The smaller arms should slide in the track of the main supports and snap at the end. Do both sides, then apply downward pressure to the cylinder and tighten the knobs on each side. Your canopy should now be fairly tight.
Next, raise the canopy. Find the handles on the side of the main supports and pull them outward. This will release the pin, then use the handle to extend the canopy by pushing it up and away from your camper. Alternate between sides to slowly attain the desired position. If expecting rain, make sure one side is lower than the other. It doesn't look as cool, but it helps get the water off quicker and doesn't allow pooling of water witch can stretch the canopy material.
Put it back up in the exact opposite order.
