Using preposition "a" to indicate how/in which style something is done

The preposition a is often used in phrases in Spanish to indicate how something is done, or in which style.

Spanish preposition "a" for means/tools

The preposition is followed by a singular noun. For example:

Note that not all means of transport use the preposition a (en avión, a avión, en tren, a tren...)

Spanish preposition "a" for denoting abruptness 

Used generally with a plural noun. For example:

Spanish preposition "a" to express how an action is carried out or how it unfolds, sometimes expressing intensity.

Used generally with a plural noun. For example:

Spanish preposition "a": using a + lo / la + adjective/noun

This is generally referring to something that is generally established as a specific way of doing something, imitating a certain way/style. It is often seen with nationality adjectives, and it is very common when talking about cooking styles. For example:

Note that when we say that something is done in a certain style the way a specific celebrity does/did, it is always "a lo" (not a la) even if the celebrity is female. For example:

Have a look at this list of adverbial manner expressions using different prepositions.