If using an electronic stud sensor, follow the directions located on the back of the stud finder. If not, look on the ceiling to identify any visible nailing patterns or drywall tape patterns. These will generally indicate the direction of the ceiling studs. If none are visible, drive a small nail (at least two inches long) 1 1/2" into the ceiling. If the nail can be pushed in the rest of the way by hand, you have not hit a stud and need to continue to do this step until you locate a stud.

Once you have located a stud using the same method, move the nail over to the right a 1/4" and drive it in 1 1/2". Repeat this step until you locate the right edge of the stud. Repeat this step moving to the left this time to determine the left edge of the ceiling stud.