How do i set the timing on a yz450

Set the piston to TDC (top dead center) this is the higest point the piston will rise before moving on to the down stroke, either by lining up the marks on the crank rotor or a long screw driver (large handle so it wont fall in) down the plug hole and watch for the highest point lock or hold at this point. If cam sprocket has marks line them with the cylinder head surface (sometimes the sprocket bolts) parallel.
The cams should be fitted next on the 'compression' stroke meaing the all valves should be closed when the cams are seated (no valves being pressed by cams) generally at this point the cam lobs face away from the valves , next stroke down (ignition of fuel) valves should be closed with the exhaust cam moving round ready to rock on to the exhaust valve as the piston rises to the top again (4th stroke exhaust) as the exhaust valve lobe rocks off the intake cam lobe should be starting to rock on opening the intake valve on the down stroke of the pistion.
Trun the engine over by hand to make sure no valves are knocking the piston.
Should be as follows
1. all valve clearance free/rocking at ' TDC 1st 'down' stroke (ignition of fuel) valves closed exhaust moving round but not pressing valve ,
2. 2nd stroke 'up' exhaust valve rocking open and closing as piston tops with the intake ready to rock on as the exhaust closes and piston tops (exhaust),
3.3rd stroke 'down' (intake of fuel) as the piston moves down the intake valve should be opening.
4. 4th stroke 'up' compression of fuel all valves rocking closed as the piston rises for the compression stroke back to TDC all valves closed/rocking free.

Intake, compression , ignition and exhaust. (**** squeeze bang blow)