Do I staple or paper clip my w2 to 1040

You can staple the W-2 on the first page of the Form 1040 and on the left side of the form.

Attach a copy of Forms W-2 or W-2G  to the front of Form 1040. Also attach Forms 1099-R if tax was withheld. 
 

Other tips for filing by mail:
 

• Sign your return. Your federal tax return is not considered a valid return unless it is signed. If you are filing a joint return, your spouse must also sign. 
• Provide a daytime phone number. This may help speed the processing of your return if the IRS has questions about items on your return.  
• Assemble any schedules and forms behind your Form 1040/1040A
• It is recommended to mail the return by a method that has tracking, so show when it arrives safely.