In article , AcornMan
wrote:

OK, so I finally got around to buying a jointer this past week, and
tried using it for the first time today (the first time I've ever even
been close to a jointer that's on). Once I got the outfeed table
aligned with the cutter blades correctly I thought all I really needed
to do was push the piece of wood across and keep it pushed down on the
outfeed table. Is that not right? I ended up with a curved edge that
looks kind of like a boomerang. I'd sure appreciate any pointers you
all might have. Thanks.

I had the same problem. I was disheartened, as this was a big expensive
jointer. After almost giving up using it I got a friend, who's a
professional woodworker, to come take a look. I assumed it was my
technique. It took him about 45 minutes to get things adjusted just
right, but since then the machine's been a dream to use. I do not think I
could have gotten it set this well myself.

You need a friend!