Method 1: Use a screw extractor (sometimes called an "easy-out")

• 1). Select a screw extractor that is as close to half the size of the screw as possible. The extractor is tapered and reverse-threaded, but look at the small end when choosing.
  
  
• 2). Drill a hole through the center of the damaged screw's head and part way into the shaft of the screw. The screw extractor's instruction sheet should tell you the size drill bit to use, but if you don't have that select one slightly larger than the small tip of the extractor.
  
  Because the surface of the screw head is damaged and wouldn't be a good flat surface to drill in even if it was intact, you might want to start with a smaller drill bit first, then use successively larger ones until you get to the size you need. It is critical to select a hole size that isn't too big, and to drill it straight.
  
  
• 3). Put the extractor into the "T"-handle and place the end of the extractor into the hole you drilled in the screw.
  
  
• 4). Begin turning the "T"-handle counter-clockwise. Because the extractor is reverse-threaded, it will begin to "bite" into the screw. Once it gets a good enough "bite," since you are turning counter-clockwise, you will begin to remove the offending screw. If you did it right, the hole the screw was in will be undamaged.
  
  

Method 2: Use a file

• 1). Select a small flat file, often called a "needle" file. These are also usually sold in sets of five or six. Do not use a triangle file; you need a flat one for this procedure.
  
  This method can be used on non-flathead screws (those that aren't countersunk into the wood or other material) or if the screw has been partially removed so that the head is no longer flush with the material.
  
  
• 2). If it is a slotted screw, used with a flat blade screwdriver, use your file to make a deeper, wider slot that a larger flat blade screwdriver will fit and then you should be able to remove it normally.
  
  
• 3). If this was a Phillips head screw, you will transform it into a slotted screw with your file and remove it as above.
  
  

Method 3: Locking pliers or large diagonal wire cutters

• 1). Select a pair of locking pliers or diagonal wire cutters. Make sure the tool you select is in good working order.
  
  
• 2). Open the locking pliers and adjust so that they will grab the head of the screw and lock down on it very tightly. Turn counter-clockwise until the screw is out.
  
  
• 3). Open the wire cutter and, holding it perpendicular to the material, grab the head of the screw making sure you are grabbing exactly along the diameter of the screw head. If you are not grabbing the widest part of the screw head you won't be able to get a "bite." Once you have a good bite on the head, start turning counter-clockwise. Continue slowly until the screw is out.