Before each use you will want to run the knife along a steel to quickly hone the edge. Steels are used to quickly hone and maintain the blade edge. If the knife becomes dull, meaning the edge is folded over; you will need to reshape it with a stone.
Whether honing or reshaping the blade, it is important to hold the blade so it is at a 20 degree angle with the sharpener and move it in smooth, even strokes. You will also want to wipe off the blade once done to remove any metal shavings.