Product guides can take many forms, and the term is used both for instruction manuals that inform readers how a product is used and for guidebooks designed to give an overview of one or more products so that a potential user can make an informed decision about utilizing that product. The first type of product guide, the instruction manual, is a form of technical writing that provides an overview of the product and a step-by-step guide for using it, as well as information about troubleshooting or repair. It also offers information about warranties, disclaimers, and contact information for the manufacturer in case of defects. Such manuals are included with the product at time of purchase and may also be available for download on the web.

The second type of product guide, the guidebook, comes in a number of formats. Famously, Consumer Reports offers product guides that compare and contrast a number of entries in a given product category in order to inform consumers about the most and least desirable aspects of each so the consumer can make an informed purchasing decision. Manufacturers and retailers also produce product guides for their products, intended for a general audience and written to highlight positive aspects of the product and entice consumers to select that product for purchase. Such guides are frequently available in stores and on manufacturer and retailer websites.