Screw-in cable clips beat staples every time.

Yes. They hold better, don’t damage the cord, and let you swap out cables without prying staples out of drywall.

Staples are fine for low-voltage wire, but extension cords are thicker and need to flex. A staple gun will either not seat fully or will pinch the insulation, which is a short waiting to happen. Screw-mount cable clips (the kind that look like a little loop with a screw hole) are cheap, hold firmly, and you can remove the cord whenever you want.

If you’re running along a ceiling joist or a wall stud, just screw them in every couple feet. For a clean look, run the cord tight and use zip ties instead — but only if you’re sure you won’t need to move it. Clips let you change your mind.

Don’t overthink this. A pack of clips is five bucks and saves you from tripping over a cord or accidentally yanking your table saw off its stand.