What is a HowMaker guide?

A guide is a structured set of editable steps. A step can contain a screenshot, instruction, narration, caption and presentation settings. Because those parts remain structured, you can update one step without rebuilding the whole guide.

Is HowMaker just a screen-recording or video tool?

No. Watch mode can feel like a narrated video, but the underlying guide remains editable. The same structured content can also support step-through and read experiences.

Can I update only one part of an existing guide?

Yes. Edit the affected step, preview the result and publish a new version. HowMaker is designed to avoid rerecording an entire process just because one screen changed.

Can I archive a guide when I reach my plan limit?

Yes. Archived guides stop counting towards the active-guide allowance. You can view archived guides separately and restore one later if your plan has room.

What narration choices are available?

Every guide can use HowMaker Device Voice. Supported plans can also use HowMaker voices, upload narration audio or record narration in the browser. Voice previews help you compare available choices before selecting one for a guide.

Can narration include deliberate pauses?

Yes. Use a single vertical bar, |, for a short pause. Repeat the marker for a longer pause, such as || or |||.

Can viewers choose another language?

Yes. The creator chooses which languages are enabled and sets a predictable default. Viewers can select another enabled language themselves.

How can I protect sensitive data in screenshots?

Use blur when the viewer should understand that information exists without being able to read it. Use permanent redaction when the original pixels must be removed.

Can I use my own domain?

Supported plans can connect a verified CNAME such as guides.example.com. HowMaker checks ownership and DNS readiness and supports automated HTTPS through the configured self-hosted domain provider.

Can I restrict access to a guide?

Guides can be public or unlisted. Supported plans can also use email and passcode gates. Email collection for access is kept separate from marketing consent.

What happens if I never verify a newly created account?

Unverified public signups are disabled after the platform-configured inactivity period and later removed after a separate, longer period. The defaults are seven days to disable and 30 days to delete. A fresh verification email can be requested before removal.