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How to Side Wire an Electrical Outlet

By Lee Wallender, About.com

6 of 7

Make Sure the Loop is Closed

Nudge Loop Closed

Nudge Loop Closed

Copyright Lee Wallender - Licensed to About.com
If the loop is not closed, you need to take this opportunity to force the loop closed. Use a flathead screwdriver. This step also helps to further force the wire under the head of the screw.

Also make sure that the loop is pointing clockwise. The reason for this is that you want the loop to close up when you tighten the screw.

Finally, for demonstration purposes, I have stripped back a generous amount of insulation from the wire. When you strip back wire, I recommend stripping back the bare minimum that will have contact with the screw.

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