1. Translation – Initiation
Steps of initiation:
Small ribosomal subunit binds to mRNA
An initiator tRNA with the anticodon UAC base pairs with the start codon AUG
The large ribosomal subunit (rRNA) completes the initiation complex, the energy molecule GTP provides energy for assembly.

2. Translation – Elongation
Steps of elongation:
The anticodon of a “charged” tRNA base pairs with the complimentary mRNA codon at the A site
The large ribosomal subunit (rRNA) catalyzes the formation of a peptide bond between the new amino acid on the A site and the carboxyl end of the growing polypeptide on the P site. Polypeptide is transferred to the A site from the P site tRNA.
Translocation. Basically the A site tRNA moves to the P site with the polypeptide attached opening up a space for a new tRNA to join the mRNA at the A site. The original tRNA is ejected from the E site of the ribosome.

3. Translation – Termination
Steps of Termination:
Ribosome reaches a stop codon on mRNA, the A site of the ribosome accepts a release factor.
The release factor promotes hydrolysis of the bond between the tRNA and the polypeptide, freeing it from the ribosome
A components of the ribosomal complex dissociate. Translation is complete.