First, leave the flue already built into the fireplace wide open. Use the flue on the insert. If you have a pair of andirons w/ about 4" clearance under them, start with a good size back log. Add some kindling at the lowest level in front of this. Then stack split wood (i.e. 1/4's or 1/8's like the back log). If the wood is dry and the fireplace/insert combination draws well, this should light readily with a few sheets of newspaper. Open the flue & door vents wide open, light, and close the doors quickly. Once the logs have caught well, close the door vents and push the flue almost closed. Only leave the door vents and flue wide open if you need a LOT of heat FAST. Not closing them can have you sitting on the porch in shirtsleeves with the front door propped open & every window in the house open.