How do I use the affiliate link I recieve when I join an affiliate program?

Each program you join sends you special links to refer customers.  This way you get credit for the sales.  Those links are the ones you put in your blog/website. 

After you have entered your affiliate link, when someone clicks on the link they will be sent to your special address so that you get a commision if they buy something.  

You may want to use something like HopUrl.com to shorten and hide your affiliate link code.  If you use HopUrl, just use the created link in place of your affiliate link.  It will work and give you credit for any sales.