Erect the tent in an appropriate location, on a level and sturdy surface. This will make sure that the tent and tarp are mounted securely in the ground. Spread a tarp out over the top of the tent and pull it so half hangs down over the tent door and the other half is still over the tent.
Cut a length of tent cord with a utility knife and tie it through one of the end grommets. Tie a loop in the other end of cord and repeat the step with the second tent-side grommet. Drive tent stakes into the ground with a rubber mallet and hook the loop around the stakes to hold the back end of the tarp steady and wrap around the tent itself.
Place tent poles in the two end grommets of the tarp that hangs over the tent door. Lift the poles so that they are vertical and pull the tarp taut over the front of the tent door. You may need to angle the tent poles slightly to get them standing up properly.
Tie tent cord around the top of the tent poles protruding through the top of the front grommets. Tie the other end to a nearby tree, or place stakes in the ground and loop the second end of cord around the stakes just as done on the back grommets.
Adjust the tent pole positions, or tighten the cords at all four corners to get it taut over the top and front of the tent. If desired, you may also angle the awning front end down slightly, or position a third pole in the center of the tarp awning. This will allow the front part of the awning to drain any rain or condensation that may collect on the top.
