It’s easy to mistake pipes, wiring, and more for a stud if you’re inexperienced. Follow our best tips for success every time.

Looking to hang something on your wall? You’ll need to find a stud (and not the kind with broad shoulders and a square jaw). Studs are vertical 2-by-4-inch beams that make up the frame of your house.

If you have a picture, mirror, or shelf to hang, you’re going to want to use a stud finder to ensure it’s appropriately anchored in place. Stud finders come in magnetic and electric models. A magnetic ...