How to fix a puncture with a puncture repair kit?

russell Position the rounded end of the tyre lever under the bead and lever downwards. Hook the other end round the nearest spoke.

  Work right round the tyre in short sections, pulling the tube out when it is free.
  Locate the hole by dunking the tube into water and remove any thorns, etc. from inside the tyre. Clean and dry the tube, and then apply a film of rubber solution.
  When dry, remove the silver foil from the patch and smooth it into place. Then peel off the cover.
  Fit the valve into the valve hole, keep the tube straight inside the tyre, then refit the tyre using your thumbs.
  DONT FORGET: To inflate your tyre to the required pressure.

this is all really sound. i've found, however, that you don't usually need to soak the tire (excuse my spelling), you can usually spot the leak. people have suggested passing the tube across your upper lip if you're not sure: you'll feel the air coming out. to double check, you can gently wet the area to make sure by seeing where it bubbles. or over inflate the tube so it's literally twice as thick as your tire and you'll spot it straight away (got that one from sheldon brown, it's fun just to see how much you can inflate a tube without doing it any damage). water is fine, but if you're in a hurry, it's a bitch to wet then dry it. but make sure it's clean. good luck.