the directions for them will say to stretch them out about 1/2-3/4" of an inch.. i used to pull them apart more like a full inch.. then slip one end in place and the spin it in.. once you do one of two you will see how easy thay can be..once you pop it into pace it will stay even better since it now is spring loaded where you pulled them apart... it's like a key chain ring.. while it is together it is very hard to get started.. but if you pull them apart alittle then you can get your keys on and off easier..