[mc32]

I do, sometimes, to get them started specially into hard wood (not necessarily hardwood), from there a driver will take over.

[Stratoscope]

Drill a pilot hole of the correct size (as wide as the screw shaft without the threads). You will have a much easier time, and you won't split the wood.

https://www.ezwoodshop.com/blog/pilot-hole/perfect-pilot-hol...

[mc32]

Of course, I meant if you don’t have those things at your disposal at a given time.

[stcredzero]

To start a screw, I've sometimes dug out a divot with the screw or a knife. That way, at least I've removed a little material that might spread apart the grain near the surface.