How do I start a compost pile?

Here's a beginners guide on how to start! https://www.stonepierpress.org/gardeningnews/howtocompost

Where have you looked for information?

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/basics/starting-compost-pile.htm

Lots of good books and online info but the short answer...think about containing your pile with a cinder block surround or a box made of pallets. Not totally necessary but a loose pile has to be fairly large. Layer greens (grass clippings, plant matter from trimming and house plants, veggie peelings, coffee and tea grounds, egg shells) with browns( dry leaves mostly). Add a little water so it feels like a moist sponge. If your layers are fairly thin it will get hot enough to hardly keep your hand in it. And don't add any fats...meat or grease. Bury the food stuff to keep away any animals. Good luck!

Here's a thought - have you ever thought about Direct Compost?

https://www.gardenupgreen.com/2015/05/direct-compost-update.html