Stop turning immediately to avoid further stripping
Apply a rubber band, thin steel wool, or abrasive grip pad between the screw head and tool; press firmly while turning counterclockwise
Use the correct bit size and type; ensure full contact and steady pressure
Try a left-hand (reverse) threaded screw extractor if available
Place a slightly larger or matching bit into the stripped head and hammer it lightly to improve bite, then turn counterclockwise
Use needle-nose pliers or locking pliers on the screw head (if any portion is exposed) and turn counterclockwise
Cut a new straight slot across the stripped head with a rotary tool or hacksaw; use a flathead screwdriver in the new slot
Cut a cross-slot with a rotary tool; use a matching screwdriver bit in the cross-slot
Drill a pilot hole centered in the screw head using a drill bit sized for screw extraction; then use an extractor to turn counterclockwise
Drill out the screw shank (not the surrounding material) if extraction fails; remove remaining threads with pliers or a tap-and-pick method
If the screw is in wood, add heat (carefully) to loosen any embedded friction, then attempt extraction again
If the screw is in metal, use penetrating oil and wait, then attempt extraction again
Prevent re-stripping by using steady downward force and turning slowly and consistently
If the screw head is below the surface, drill and extract the screw using a screw extractor sized for the remaining head area
Replace the screw after successful removal
