Conversation so far:
where is the mass air flow sensor located
The mass air flow sensor may be located in a different position down the intake plenum just after the air box but will always be before the throttle body.
what does the mass air flow sensor measure
the mass air flow sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine
what can be calculated from the mass air flow sensor measuring the amount of air entering the engine
Based on the reading from the mass air flow sensor, the Electronic Control Unit calculates the amount of fuel to be sent to the engine.
what are some issues if the mass air flow sensor is faulty
A faulty mass air filter sensor can cause all sorts of engine problems such as stalling, rough idling and hard starting, preventing ideal efficiency and mileage.

Question: what is the best way to clean the sensor
Self-contained rewrite: what is the best way to clean the mass air flow sensor