how-to
UK: ˈhaʊ tuː | US: ˈhaʊ tuː
n. a practical method or guide explaining how to accomplish a specific task
adj. providing practical instructions or advice
The term "how-to" emerged in the early 20th century as a compound of the interrogative adverb "how" (Old English hū, meaning "in what way") and the preposition "to" (Old English tō, indicating direction or purpose). It originally functioned as a phrase ("how to do X") before solidifying into a noun/adjective describing instructional content. The logic is straightforward: "how" addresses method, while "to" marks the goal, creating a compact label for procedural guidance.
This book is a comprehensive how-to for beginner gardeners.
She watched a how-to video before assembling the furniture.
The magazine publishes monthly how-to articles on home repairs.
His blog offers free how-to guides for digital marketing.
The workshop provided hands-on how-to training for using the software.