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Step 1
Know how a standard screwdriver is made. Its parts consist of a handle and a shank and a blade. The shank is the long round or square piece that extends from the handle and the blade is the piece at the end of the shank that is also called a tip.
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Step 2
Know what sizes are available in standard screwdrivers. They come in lengths that range from 2 1/2 to 12 inches. Larger or smaller ones are considered specialty screwdrivers such as the tiny ones used in eyeglass repair. The blades on standards can be extra wide or narrow and they can vary in thickness as well.
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Step 3
Know the types of handles used in standard screwdrivers. They may be made of wood, plastic or metal. Wooden hand grips are usually used with metal handles to prevent slippage. Plastic and wood handles both come on cheap and well made screwdrivers, so don't use this as the best indicator of quality.
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Step 4
Know how to choose a good standard screwdriver. Check the shank to see if it extends all the way down the handle. This is a sturdy screwdriver. If the shank extends only a short way into the handle, it'll be pinned into place so you'll be able to see that. For heavy duty use, choose a square shank which can be gripped with pliers to turn.
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Step 5
Know how to choose the right screwdriver for the job. The blade of the screwdriver should fit the screw snugly so that it can't slip out and damage the surface you're screwing it into. The screwdriver should turn the screw without sliding back and forth.
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Step 6
Use the screwdriver properly. Only use a screwdriver to screw things in or back them out. Don't use it as a little pry bar or tiny paint scraper or anything else. Only use a wrench to turn a screwdriver with a square shank as it's designed to withstand this, while round shanks aren't.
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Step 7
Keep screwdrivers clean and in a tool box or other dry place. If properly used and kept clean and dry, a screwdriver should last for many years.
