tool

tool · Not mentioned by Google

Appears in

HowTo

What is it?

The tool property lists instruments or equipment needed to complete a how-to task. Tools are items the reader uses but does not consume during the process, like a wrench, a drill, or a measuring tape.

Why this matters for AEO

When a user asks "what tools do I need to hang a shelf," AI answer engines pull tool data to generate an equipment checklist. Named tool objects let the AI present a clean list rather than parsing tool mentions from paragraph text.

What the specs say

Schema.org:HowToTool, Text. A sub-property of instrument. An object used (but not consumed) when performing instructions or a direction.

Google: Not mentioned. HowTo rich result has been deprecated by Google as of September 2023. Source

How to find your value

• DIY guides — "Tools required" sections
• Repair manuals — Equipment lists
• Craft tutorials — "Tools you will need" sections
• Workshop instructions — Tool inventories at the start

Format and code

{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "HowTo",
  "name": "Change a Flat Tire",
  "tool": [
    {
      "@type": "HowToTool",
      "name": "Spare tire"
    },
    {
      "@type": "HowToTool",
      "name": "Lug wrench",
      "image": "lug-wrench.jpg"
    },
    {
      "@type": "HowToTool",
      "name": "Jack"
    },
    {
      "@type": "HowToTool",
      "name": "Wheel wedges",
      "image": "wheel-wedges.jpg"
    }
  ]
}

Webflow implementation

Static pages

Add tool as an array of HowToTool objects inside your HowTo JSON-LD block in Page Settings > Custom Code > Footer Code.

CMS template pages

Store tool names in a CMS text field and map them to HowToTool objects in a custom code embed.

In Schema HQ

The tool field does not currently generate HowTo markup. Add tool data manually through Webflow custom code.

Real examples

From Schema.org HowTo Example:

{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "HowTo",
  "name": "Change a Flat Tire",
  "tool": [
    {"@type": "HowToTool", "name": "Spare tire"},
    {"@type": "HowToTool", "name": "Lug wrench", "image": "lug-wrench.jpg"},
    {"@type": "HowToTool", "name": "Jack"},
    {"@type": "HowToTool", "name": "Wheel wedges", "image": "wheel-wedges.jpg"}
  ]
}

Related fields

• supply
• step
• estimatedCost

FAQ

What is the difference between tool and supply?

A tool is used but not consumed (wrench, drill, paintbrush). A supply is consumed during the task (paint, nails, sandpaper). If the item survives the task, it is a tool.

Can tool be used inside individual steps?

Yes. tool appears on both HowTo and HowToDirection. List tools at the HowTo level for a full equipment list, or within specific directions to show which tool each step requires.