Digging with an excavator requires advanced training and years of practice. However, medig with an excavator requires at least a basic level of skill and knowledge to get you started. Essentials of knowing how to operate an excavator starts with a few essentials. First the joystick, and the buttons on the joystick to open and close the bucket, along with the buttons which control the stabilizers. Once you familiarize yourself with these, try moving the excavator forward and backward to get comfortable. Always check the digging site before you start to look out for any potential hazards such as underground wires and pipes. Always make safety a priority, wear the appropriate gear and be aware of your surroundings. Practice really helps with all large equipment, and you should practice in an as safe as possible before you start practice in the intended area. Remember that the skill of an excavator operator determines the efficiency of the machine, so practice is really the only way to improve.