how the heck do u make events on RPG Maker

i customized every thing else accept the events, i can do some stuff like placing random characters all over the levels, making certain characters say certain things, checking stuff to place it in your inventory, and opening chest. i just need to know how to use the switches and assign different switch numbers to make events happen. my instruction manual is lost as it is a very old game. i would really appreciate any help u could give me. if u can tell me how to manipulate the whole events section. thanks