When to Use Asterisks

YES, USE ASTERISKS!

To show a break in the text, such as a doodad or a bullet point or large blank space. Replace whatever was there with an asterisk. Keep in mind that not every blank lines shows a break in the text. This will be an extra large blank space or symbol, and used to show a change of scenery
Example: Jenny was curled up on her sofa by nine, sharing a plate of taco chips with her dog Harley.
[blank line]
"I want a double shot expresso," Tim told the clerk.
NOTE: This blank line should be replaced by an asterisk so the CORRECTLY proofread version would look like: Jenny was curled up on her sofa by nine, sharing a plate of taco chips with her dog Harley.
*
"I want a double shot expresso," Tim told the clerk.

NO, DON'T PUT IN AN ASTERISK

To show that there is a new chapter. Back in the day proofreaders used to include three asterisks to make sure it was very clear that there was a new chapter. Our processes have changed, so now it's not necessary!
Next to a numbered footnote. If the footnotes are noted using numbers, no asterisk should be added
To navigate in a cookbook. Instead, include the word "recipe" in square brackets. ONLY do this if the cookbook doesn't have a helpful table of contents