How do pilots identify the taxi path to the runway?
Source: wikimedia.org

Guiding is called progressive taxi and can be requested. A follow-me car can also be used to guide the plane. In some airports the follow-me car is mandatory, along with its fees.
In most cases the pilots use charts. Either paper or electronic. Some electronic charts offer a moving map feature, whereby the crew can see their position on the map.
Lastly, there's the new follow-the-greens (video link), in which the ATC programs the taxi route and the crew are then guided by smart green lights. Follow-the-greens cockpit video / ATC audio in Singapore Changi can be seen here.
In all cases, except for follow-the-greens, the route is given. It's worth mentioning that the taxiways are marked by signs as well.
Coming soon by 2020 (2021 update: it's now ready for deployment; full benefits by 2023) is the taxi route display for pilots, in which the cockpit displays draw the taxi route via ATC datalink. See possible interface here (Boeing). Airbus interface below:


Source: SESAR JU D-Taxi provides datalink exchange solutions for flight crew and controller during taxi, YouTube