How to actually solder, not just what to buy. Technique, flux, solder choice and troubleshooting.

• How to Solder: A Beginner's Guide

  How to make a proper solder joint from scratch: tinning the tip, heating the joint (not the solder), and telling a good joint from a cold one.

• How to Solder Wire (Wire-to-Wire Joints)

  How to join two wires by soldering: stripping, twisting, tinning separately, then joining and insulating the finished splice.

• How to Solder With Flux (And Why It Matters)

  What flux actually does, when flux-core solder wire is enough on its own, and when to add extra flux from a pen or liquid bottle.

• Which Solder Wire Should You Use With Your Iron?

  Leaded vs lead-free solder, and what wire diameter suits general electronics work.

• How to Solder a PCB (Through-Hole Components)

  How to solder through-hole components onto a circuit board, and when you actually need hot air instead.

• Soldering Projects for Beginners (What to Practice On)

  What to actually solder while you're learning, from scrap board practice to simple first kits and repairs.

• Soldering Tips: Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

  Symptom-based fixes for the most common soldering problems: dull joints, solder that won't stick, and tips that stop working.

• Lead-Free vs Leaded Solder: Which Should You Use?

  Compare lead-free and leaded solder for electronics, including melting points, tip settings, joint appearance, flux choices and safe handling advice.

Looking for a buying recommendation instead? See our best soldering stations & irons guide.