how-to

American  

[hou-too] / ˈhaʊˈtu /

adjective

1. giving or pertaining to basic instructions and directions to the layperson on the methods for doing or making something, especially as a hobby or for practical use.

   a how-to book on photography.

---

noun

how-tos plural

1. a set of step-by-step instructions for accomplishing a certain task or reaching a certain objective.

   a how-to for fixing a leaky faucet.

2. the basic principles or approach for doing something.

   the how-to of investing in the stock market.

how-to British  

adjective

1. (of a book or guide) giving basic instructions to the lay person on how to do or make something, esp as a hobby or for practical purposes

   a how-to book on carpentry

---

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• how-toer
  noun

Inflected Forms

Nouns

• how-tos
  plural

Etymology

Origin of how-to

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Though an initial documentary on the couple scored high ratings with further details on Megxit, viewership for Meghan’s more recent how-to show, With Love, Meghan, fell this last season.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 11, 2026

Maybe a few of the how-to asides are superfluous; I really didn’t need a lesson on how to gift wrap books.

From Salon • Aug. 27, 2025

This is the most comprehensive how-to guide for Hollywood careers I’ve ever read.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 8, 2025

BBC Trending has investigated the global spread of 3D-printed guns across social media platforms including Telegram, Facebook and Instagram, as well as websites offering how-to guides.

From BBC • Jun. 18, 2025

I could use an in-person guru to help, instead of me pausing and rewinding how-to videos every few seconds to follow along.

From "The House That Lou Built" by Mae Respicio