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Here's how to Remove a Stripped Screw.

i. Here are some tips for removing stripped screws:

- Use a rubber band between the screwdriver and screw head to increase grip and friction. Place a rubber band over the screw head and press your screwdriver tip into the rubber band, then turn.

- Try a larger screwdriver that fills more of the space in the screw head. The tighter fit can help it grip enough to turn the screw.

- File or grind down a screwdriver tip to fit better into the stripped screw head. Match the shape and make it slightly larger.

- Use screw extracting pliers which grip tightly to the edges of the screw head and allow turning out stripped screws.

- Place a wide rubber band or piece of rubber over the screw head and use a hammer to tap the screwdriver into the head to increase traction.

- Use a screw extraction kit which drills into the screw and uses left-handed drill bits to back the screw out.

- As a last resort, drill into the stripped screw head using a drill bit slightly larger than the screw shaft. This will allow gripping the shaft with pliers and turning out.

- Avoid power drivers at high torque, as this can further strip the head. Use hand tools for more control.

- Add a drop of super glue or epoxy to the screwdriver tip and insert into the screw head. Let set slightly before attempting to turn.

The key is to increase grip and friction on the damaged screw head in any way possible. Start with less invasive options before drilling or extracting to avoid further damage.

ii. Here are some tips to help avoid stripping screw heads:

- Use the right size screwdriver - Make sure the screwdriver tip fits snugly into the screw head grooves. An improperly sized screwdriver is a common cause of stripped screws.

- Apply downward pressure - Applying too much torque or force sideways can cause the screwdriver to slip and strip the head. Push down firmly instead.

- Go slow - Turn the screwdriver slowly and steadily. Sudden twisting or high speed increases chances of slipping.

- Lubricate the screw - Putting a few drops of oil or lubricant on the screw threads can help the screwdriver turn smoothly.

- Use a powered driver carefully - Adjust torque settings and drive slowly. It's easy to overdrive with a drill.

- Consider pre-drilling - For screws going into very hard material, drill a pilot hole so the screw can enter easily without too much force.

- Use quality screwdrivers - Robust drivers with properly machined tips are less likely to cam out or slip.

- Replace damaged screws - Throw out any screws with stripped, rounded out or corroded heads.

- Use screw extractors for stubborn screws - Damaged screws often need to be removed with extractor bits.

- Use the universal screw head - Hex, square and star drive screws are less prone to stripping.

- Add a rubber band - Placing a rubber band between the screw and screwdriver increases grip.

iii. Here are some common causes of stripped screws:

1. Using the wrong screwdriver: Using a screwdriver that is too small or too large for the screw head can damage the screw and make it difficult to remove.

2. Applying too much torque: Overtightening a screw can damage the screw head and make it difficult to remove.

3. Using a damaged screwdriver: A worn or damaged screwdriver can slip and damage the screw head.

4. Working with corroded screws: Corrosion can make screws difficult to remove and can damage the screw head.

5. Using power tools: Using a power drill or impact driver can strip screws if the tool is not used properly or if the screw is not properly supported.

6. Working with screws in awkward positions: Trying to remove a screw in an awkward position can make it difficult to apply the correct amount of torque and can damage the screw head.

7. Using poor quality screws: Poor quality screws are more likely to strip than high quality screws.

Here are some tips to prevent stripped screws:

1. Use the correct screwdriver: Make sure you are using a screwdriver that is the correct size for the screw head.

2. Apply the correct amount of torque: Do not overtighten screws.

3. Use a sharp screwdriver: A sharp screwdriver will grip the screw head better and will be less likely to slip.

4. Clean corroded screws: If a screw is corroded, use a wire brush or a penetrating oil to clean it before trying to remove it.

5. Use power tools with caution: If you are using a power drill or impact driver, make sure you are using the correct settings and that the screw is properly supported.

6. Work with screws in a comfortable position: Try to work with screws in a position where you can apply the correct amount of torque and where the screw head is easy to access.

7. Use high quality screws: High quality screws are less likely to strip than poor quality screws.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent stripped screws and make your DIY projects easier and more enjoyable.