Yes, screws are typically designed to fasten when turned clockwise (righty-tighty) and unfasten when turned counter-clockwise (lefty-loosey). This convention is widely followed in many applications and industries.
The reason for this convention can be traced back to historical and practical considerations. Early screw designs were often right-handed (clockwise) threads because most people are right-handed, making it more natural and intuitive to turn the screw clockwise to tighten it. This convention became widely adopted, and it remains the standard today for most applications.
However, it's important to note that there can be exceptions and variations in specific contexts. In some specialized applications or certain regions, screws or fasteners with left-handed threads may be used intentionally, such as in certain machinery, specialized tools, or specific industries. These left-handed threads are designed to fasten when turned counter-clockwise and unfasten when turned clockwise.
It's always a good practice to consult the specific instructions or guidelines for the particular screw or fastener you are working with to ensure the correct direction for tightening or loosening.