Get to know the timing of tango. Most patterns are based on counts of eight, and you'll find that tango music contains phrases of eight counts. You can step so you land on or slightly behind the beat, you can begin your step on the beat or you can do quick, or double-time, steps in between the beats. Listen to the music and find the possibilities within it.
Understand the order of steps for a classic tango 8-count basic. You'll start with a step forward on your left foot, then a step to your side with the right. Next step back with your left and then your right. On the next back step, bring your left foot to rest in front of you right foot in what's known as the cross. Switch weight when he asks you and take a step back with your right foot. Bring your feet together, take a side step with your left foot, bring your feet to gather and change weight. Now you're ready to take a step with your left foot.
Take a natural-feeling close embrace for social tango, staying in front of your partner but slightly to his right. For ballroom tango, put your left hand around your partner's right shoulder. The hand should be flat and parallel to the floor. Join your partner's right palm with yours and hold it at eye level.
Keep your upper body tall and straight, even if you're in a close embrace. Your shoulders should remain over your hips throughout the dance, unless you're doing off axis moves like volcadas. Keep your knees relaxed rather than locked as you dance, and use your whole foot to move rather than just staying on your toes.
Create a slight delay before moving your feet to build a stronger connection with your partner and the music. Start with your feet together, in the gathered position. Move one foot at a time, paying attention to how large a step your partner is asking for.
Follow each step he leads. When you take a forward step, lean back into his embrace somewhat to prevent falling into the step. When you take a side step, lean slightly to the opposite side that you're stepping to. When you take a back step, lean slightly forward.