Which tool uses a cross-shaped tip to engage Phillips screws?

• A. Phillips Screwdriver
• B. Ratchet
• C. Socket
• D. Router

Answer: (A)

Understanding screw drive types and driver tips helps you pick the right tool. Phillips screws have a cross-shaped recess, and the tool that fits into that pattern is the Phillips screwdriver. Its tip is designed to engage the four lobes of the screw recess, allowing you to apply torque and turn the screw. The cross-shaped design also helps center the bit and provides the intended cam-out behavior to prevent overtightening. The other options don’t match this drive type: a ratchet is just a turning handle that may hold different bits, a socket is used with nuts or bolts and usually has a hex or square drive, and a router is a woodworking tool for shaping material and isn’t used to drive screws.