I just got a nikon d40 and i can't figure out how to set it up or get it where i can actually take a picture with it

There is a way to "reset" the camera to the factory defaults. this will get it working . turn on the camera, there are two "green dots" near buttons on the camera. one is near the on-off switch, the other is on the lower left back of the camera. after the camera is turned on, press and hold both of the green dot buttons together for a few seconds. release the buttons, most of the cameras controls will now be reset. turn the know on the top right of the camera to the little green icon, this is full auto setting. Most nikons will not take a picture if there is not a memory card in the camera! the see if it is not working because there is no card, turn on the camera and press the upper left button on the rear of the camera. it will tell you if it has a card or not. if it has a card installed you should be able to take a picture.