When using skipping as a warmup or in a boxing workout routine, you will undoubtedly drop the rope or trip yourself up time and time again.  The key is to keep bouncing as if you hadn't messed up or dropped the rope and then get it going again as you keep moving.  Doing so maintains the intensity and eventually you get a whole lot better at skipping.  When you do, it will be extremely rewarding so keep at it.

Starting Position

Take your rope and hold it by the handles.  Place it just behind your feet or alternatively you can begin using the side swing method and move into the rope.

Performing the Exercise

Turn your wrists to flip the rope up over your head and around.  As the rope goes up and over your head start to jump up letting the rope turn underneath your feet.  Maintain the turning motion and the rope will keep turning as you jump it.  Pretty simple.

Once you have the rope moving, switch to the boxer's shuffle.  This is simply an alternating step.  With every jump, one foot shoots forward and doesn't touch the ground.  Next jump, the other foot moves forward.  Like the basic skipping, the boxer's shuffle gives one leg a break with every jump which allows you to continue jumping longer.  Unlike the basic skipping, you can greatly increase the intensity and speed at which you are turning the rope with the boxer's shuffle.

Tips

Do not try to jump too high.  You barely have to the leave the ground for the rope to pass underneath your feet.  Hold your arms away from your body.  This will give you a wider archway to jump through and give your shoulders a better workout.  As well, you do not have to put a lot of effort into turning the rope.  Relax and figure out the timing.

You can jump two footed all the time and you will likely learn that way, but very quickly your shins and your calves are going to hate you for it.  If you get shin splints, stop and read how to deal with shin splints.  A better option is this boxer's shuffle step which will allow you to skip for hours and let you transition to more advanced moves.

Skipping is all about rhythm.  Eventually the step and the rope will work together.  Don't get frustrated.  Just keep calm and keep trying.