1. We use how to ask about things that change – for example people’s mood and health.
We use what… like to ask about things that do not change – for example, people’s appearance and character. Compare:
- How‘s Ron? He’s very well.
- What‘s Ron like. He’s tall and dark, and a bit shy.
- How does he look?. Surprised.
- What does he look like. Nice
2. We often use how to ask about people’s reactions to their experiences
- How was the film? Great.
- How‘s your steak?
- How‘s the new job?
3. Don’t confuse the preposition like (in What… like?) with the verb like.
Compare:
- What is she like? Lovely
- What does she like? Dancing and fast cars