it's really just one operation, you flip it and clip at the same time.
You dig the front end of your cleat into the front of the pedal. While you do this it starts to rotate forward and then you push down to clip in.
Imagine kind of putting the smooth front of your toe on top of the front of the pedal, then slide the shoe forward until the cleat catches the pedal. As the cleat catches the pedal the pedal will rotate forward and become flat so you can push down.
It sounds more complicated than it is. It'll become second nature.
You can also pedal if you're close but not clicked in, just don't stand.