Tips On How to Use Basic Tools: Master a Tape Measure, Hammer & Screwdriver

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Most guys think they already know how to use basic tools when it comes to DIY. After all, how hard is it to swing a hammer, pull out a tape measure, or turn a screwdriver? The reality is, a lot of DIY mistakes—crooked shelves, bent nails, stripped screws, or inaccurate cuts—come from using these essential tools the wrong way. Learning how to use basic tools correctly not only makes your projects cleaner and sturdier but also saves you a ton of frustration.

If you’re new to DIY or just want to sharpen your skills, let’s break down these three foundational tools so you can learn how to use basic tools like a pro.

Common DIY Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

I know this topic can seem unnecessary, and borderline degrading for some, but knowing how to use basic tools properly really makes a difference. Before we dive in, here are some of the most common DIY mistakes that happen when basic tools are used incorrectly:

• Crooked shelves? You’re likely measuring wrong or misaligning brackets.
• Bent nails? You might be swinging too wildly or using the wrong hammer.
• Stripped screws? You could be using the wrong screwdriver size or applying uneven pressure.

By mastering the right techniques, you can avoid these common frustrations and get professional-quality results.

Before that you need to acquire some of these tools though huh? So you can open this in another tab to get an idea of some of the best basic tools you’ll need.

The Tape Measure – Accuracy is Everything

When it comes to knowing how to use basic tools, a tape measure is the backbone of every DIY project. Whether you’re measuring wood for a cut, spacing out wall anchors, or ensuring things are level, accuracy is everything. A tape measure is only as good as the person using it, so let’s make sure you’re doing it right.

First, here’s the right way to hold a tape measure. Instead of loosely pulling it out and letting it wobble, place your thumb firmly on the casing while extending the tape. This keeps it steady and prevents it from shifting, which can throw off your measurement by as much as a quarter-inch—which, in DIY terms, is huge.

Now, you’ve probably noticed the small metal hook at the end of the tape. That little piece isn’t just for decoration—it actually moves slightly to account for the thickness of the hook itself. When you measure from an outside edge (like the end of a board), it extends outward. When you measure from an inside corner (like a window frame), it presses inward. This ensures consistent, precise measurements every time.

Another overlooked detail? The small hole in the metal hook. That’s designed to hook onto a nail or screw so you can measure accurately without someone holding the other end. Use this trick when working alone.

Finally, let’s talk about reading the fractions. Many guys get tripped up by the tiny lines between the inches. The longer the line, the bigger the fraction:

• The middle line is ½-inch (I left it out of the picture by accident)
• The next longest is ¼-inch
• Then there’s ⅛-inch
• And the shortest is 1/16-inch

If you can get comfortable reading these at a glance, you’ll measure faster and cut more precisely. Here’s a nice guide from the Home Depot on how to read a tape.

The Hammer – It’s Not Just About Swinging Hard

If you’ve ever bent a nail or smashed your finger, chances are, you weren’t holding or swinging your hammer correctly. Most beginners grip it too high up, thinking it gives them better control. But the best way to hold a hammer is near the end of the handle. This gives you more power with less effort, so you don’t have to swing as hard.

Choosing the right hammer matters too. A 16-ounce claw hammer is the most versatile for DIY projects. The curved claw helps pull out nails, while the flat head provides a clean strike. If you’re working on heavier-duty projects, a 20-ounce framing hammer gives more force but requires a stronger arm.

Now, let’s talk about driving nails without bending them. First, position the nail at a slight angle rather than straight up. Hold it near the bottom and tap it lightly two or three times to set it in place. Once it’s stable, give controlled, firm strikes, letting the hammer’s weight do the work. If you swing wildly, you’ll increase the chance of bending the nail or even splitting the wood.

One last tip: If your nails keep bending, try rubbing the tip with a little soap. It reduces friction, making it drive in smoother.

The Screwdriver – Stop Stripping Screws

Stripped screws are one of the most frustrating DIY problems and knowing how to use basic tools will minimize this. You push and turn, but the screwdriver just spins in place, ruining the screw head and making it nearly impossible to remove. This happens when you use the wrong screwdriver size or apply too little pressure.

First, always match your screwdriver to the exact size of the screw head. If it’s too small, it won’t grip properly, and if it’s too large, it won’t fit. A #2 Phillips screwdriver is the most common size for household projects, but having a full set of sizes will keep you covered.

Next, apply firm, steady pressure while turning. Don’t just rely on your wrist—use your whole arm for controlled force. If you’re working with a tough screw, pressing your opposite hand on the top of the screwdriver while turning can help maintain grip.

If a screw feels too tight, don’t just force it. Try these tricks:

• The rubber band trick – Place a rubber band over the stripped screw head and press the screwdriver into it. This fills in the gaps and adds grip.
• Penetrating oil – A little WD-40 can help loosen stuck screws.
• A power drill – Sometimes, a little extra torque is needed. Use a drill with a properly sized bit and low speed to avoid overdriving or stripping the screw further.

When to Use a Hand Screwdriver vs. a Drill

Knowing when to use a hand screwdriver or a power drill can make a big difference in your DIY projects.

• Use a hand screwdriver when:
  • You need precision and control (such as assembling furniture or working with delicate materials).
  • You’re dealing with small screws that could be overdriven or stripped by a drill.
  • You don’t want to risk splitting the wood, especially in softer materials.
• Use a power drill when:
  • You have multiple screws to drive and want to save time and effort.
  • You’re working with harder materials like dense wood or metal that require more torque.
  • You need to drill pilot holes before inserting screws to prevent splitting.

If you’re unsure, start with a hand screwdriver and switch to a drill if you find yourself struggling.

Final Thoughts – Master the Basics, Master DIY

By mastering these three essential tools, you’ll work more efficiently, avoid frustrating mistakes, and build with confidence. A simple shift in how you hold a hammer, read a tape measure, or use a screwdriver can be the difference between a solid project and a frustrating mess. Learning how to use basic tools the right way is one of the most valuable skills any DIYer can develop.

Now that you’ve got the basics down, what’s next? One of the most overlooked DIY skills is knowing how to hang things on a wall properly. Shelves, TVs, picture frames—it’s easy to do wrong and damage your walls in the process.

In my next post, I’ll show you how to hang anything the right way—without ruining your drywall or leaving ugly holes. See you over there!