a pointer on how to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a pointer on how to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when seeking guidance or advice on a specific topic or task. Example: "I would appreciate a pointer on how to improve my writing skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

NIIT's experiences provide another pointer on how to compete.

Forbes

But when he found himself looking for a job for the first time in decades, a friend gave him a few pointers on how to use those sites for real networking opportunities.

The New York Times

In the past, I've offered a few pointers on how to choose a good business broker, as well as how to determine what kind of professional you may need.

The New York Times

Monologue of play producer who calls up a publicity agent to give him a few pointers on how to advertise the play he is going to produce.

The New Yorker

By Arthur Kober The New Yorker, September 13 , 1930P. 59 Monologue of play producer who calls up a publicity agent to give him a few pointers on how to advertise the play he is going to produce.

The New Yorker

The Warriors cross country programs are perennial powers, and The Daily Pilot caught up with the man behind it all, Coach George Varvas, who gives a few pointers on how to create and sustain a successful program.

Los Angeles Times

Without a question the attendant trotted out a de-luxe model with fat rubber tires, gave her a few pointers on how to operate it, and sent her off with his good wishes.

The New Yorker

Gives him a few pointers on how to crystallize the true spirit of genuine American characters.

The New Yorker

James Southerland, a sharpshooting forward, said he will pick McNamara's brain between now and tipoff Saturday to absorb a few pointers on how to handle the moment.

The New York Times

The book"How to Read Eyes" by Martini, the Palmist gives us a few pointers on how to read all kinds of orbs; other books are "How to get a job through the Help Wanted Ads", by Jacob Penn, and "One Key to Baldpate" or "The trues Cause of Baldness"by I.L. Nagler, who has an hysterical hatred of baldness.

The New Yorker

Here are a few pointers on how to do so.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When offering "a pointer on how to" do something, be specific. Instead of broad advice, provide concrete steps or examples to guide the recipient.

Common error

Avoid offering "a pointer on how to" achieve a general goal without providing specific, actionable advice. Ensure your guidance is practical and tailored to the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pointer on how to" functions as a prepositional phrase offering advice or guidance. Based on Ludwig's AI analysis, the phrase is grammatically sound and serves to introduce a helpful suggestion or tip for achieving a specific goal.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a pointer on how to" serves as a grammatically correct and acceptable phrase for offering advice or guidance. Although Ludwig finds it usable, the lack of examples suggests it's not a very common expression. When using this phrase, be sure to provide specific and actionable advice to maximize its helpfulness. Alternatives such as "a tip on how to" or "guidance on how to" can be used depending on the context. The formality is neutral, making it appropriate for a variety of settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A tip on how to

Replaces "pointer" with "tip", suggesting a less formal piece of advice.

Guidance on how to

Substitutes "pointer" with "guidance", indicating a more comprehensive form of advice.

Advice on how to

Replaces "pointer" with "advice", offering a general recommendation.

Suggestions for how to

Uses "suggestions" instead of "pointer", implying multiple possible approaches.

Recommendations for how to

Substitutes "pointer" with "recommendations", indicating a more formal suggestion.

Instructions on how to

Replaces "pointer" with "instructions", implying a more detailed and step-by-step guide.

Insights into how to

Uses "insights" instead of "pointer", suggesting a deeper understanding or perspective.

Clues about how to

Replaces "pointer" with "clues", indicating hints or subtle pieces of information.

Indications on how to

Substitutes "pointer" with "indications", implying signs or signals guiding action.

A lesson on how to

Replaces "pointer" with "lesson", often implying you need to learn something.

FAQs

How can I use "a pointer on how to" in a sentence?

You can use "a pointer on how to" when you are offering a piece of advice or a helpful suggestion for accomplishing something. For example, "Can you give me "a pointer on how to" start my own business?"

What are some alternatives to "a pointer on how to"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a tip on how to", "guidance on how to", or "advice on how to". The best choice depends on the context and the level of formality desired.

Is it better to say "a pointer on how to" or "pointers on how to"?

The choice between "a pointer" (singular) and "pointers" (plural) depends on whether you are offering one specific piece of advice or multiple suggestions. "Pointers" suggests several tips or pieces of guidance.

What's the difference between "a pointer on how to" and "instructions for how to"?

"A pointer on how to" typically implies a quick, helpful suggestion. "Instructions for how to", on the other hand, indicates a more detailed, step-by-step guide. Therefore, "instructions for how to" provide more comprehensive information.