How to Pick a Tool for Out of View Use

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What do you do when there is a hard-to-see screw and you don't know what kind of screwdriver or size socket you need? If you are working on a large appliance and you don't know if you have all the tools you need but aren't ready to move it away from the wall, or you would have to take some of it apart to see what comes next but you aren't ready to actually start the project. What if you need a part but you can't see the part number... It is surprising how often this simple trick can be used.

Steps

1. 1
   Press a finger, (the spot with your finger print), or piece of clay into the head of the screw (or whatever is there).

   
   
2. 2
   Do this really hard. If using your finger, do this gently for clay.
3. 3
   "Read" the impression that is left on your finger or in the clay.

   
   

Tips

• This works for things like raised symbols, numbers, or writing on plastic or metal: a company name, + or - , a part number, etc., but it will be backwards!
• It may not work if you have calluses; find some softer skin to press with.

Warnings

• Always be careful when putting a finger or a hand into a place you can't see. You could get a burn or a cut, or your hand or finger(s) could get stuck if forced into a small space.

Things You'll Need

• Finger or clay

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