I only use guides to know when collectables are coming up. I prefer the no-spoiler ones quite thoroughly. Checklists are just as nice.

I'm just usually not interested in repeating asinine collectable quests more than twice, so I get it over and done with the first time.

It's been a long time since I was stuck on where to go or how to beat a puzzle/section, though it has happened in the past. Guides save controllers.