Gauge question

When I’m casting on, all my stitches end up all squished together on my needle. To check gauge do I straighten them out? How far should I pull them? Remember, I’m a brand new knitter. Thanks in advance!!
Janis

I think watching Knitting Gauge Basics would be a good idea. Gauge can’t be checked by counting the stitches you’ve cast on, you have to knit some rows first.

Well, that explains a bunch. Lol. I must have missed that info. Off to watch the video. Thank you!!