what do guitar pickups do
Pickups are part of what makes a good guitar, and they can improve your guitar's tone. For example, put the lowest quality pickups in a PRS, and it won't sound as good. But put the best pickups in a really low quality guitar such as a Hello Kitty guitar, and the tone will improve. There are other factors, such as wood quality and craftsmanship. If you're looking to improve your guitar's tone, first thing you should get is a better amp.