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Begin by determining the required dimensions for your deck stairs. First, find the location for your bottom step. Place a long level on top of the deck's surface and measure the total vertical height from the top of the deck down to where you intend for the steps to end on the ground. For example, if this measurement is 55 inches. To find the ideal step height, divide this total height by 7 inches (a common comfortable rise for steps), and round the result to the nearest whole number; this gives you the number of risers. If the example height is 55 inches, dividing by 7 gives approximately 7.8, which rounds to 8 risers. Next, divide the total height (e.g., 55 inches) by the actual number of risers (e.g., 8) to get the precise height of each riser (e.g., 6 and 7/8 inches). If the calculated step height feels uncomfortable, adjust by reducing the number of risers by one and recalculating. Remember that the deck itself will serve as the top riser, so subtract one from your calculated number of risers for the actual stringer cuts. For the treads, plan to use two 5/4 by 6-inch decking planks, which will result in each tread 'run' being approximately 11 inches. Also, consider that 2-by toe kicks on the back will provide a clean finish.