To burp a newborn, the key steps involve supporting their head and neck, ensuring their tummy and back are straight (not curled), and gently rubbing or patting their back. Here are three effective positions commonly used:

1. Over the shoulder: Rest your baby's chin on your shoulder, support the head and shoulder area with one hand, and gently rub or pat their back with the other. Walking around while doing this can help.
2. Sitting on your lap: Sit your baby on your lap facing away from you. Place your hand flat against their chest, support their chin and jaw (without pressing the throat), lean them forward slightly, and gently rub or pat their back with your other hand.
3. Lying across your lap: Lay your baby face down across your lap, support their chin carefully without pressure, and gently rub or pat their back with your free hand.

A few minutes of burping is usually enough. If your baby can't burp and shows signs of trapped wind (crying, arching back, drawing legs up, clenched fists), try lying them on their back, gently massaging the tummy, or moving their legs back and forth like riding a bicycle. Your baby will let you know when they need to be burped—some need it during the feed, others after, so watch for signs of discomfort. Remember to have a cloth or burp cloth handy as your baby may spit up a little during burping, which is normal.