100 questions · 90 min · 75% to pass
Question 1
How does cutting elevation affect weight distribution in a haircut?
Answer: Higher elevation (above 90 degrees) removes weight and creates layers with movement, while lower elevation (0–45 degrees) builds and concentrates weight at the perimeter for a heavier, denser line.
Question 2
Where is a round brush placed to create root lift during blow-drying?
Answer: Underneath the section
Question 3
Why is razor cutting risky on fine, thin hair?
Answer: It frays and damages the cuticle
Question 4
What should you do if a client has a psoriasis outbreak on the nape?
Answer: Avoid the area, refer to physician
Question 5
What is the difference between a blunt cut and a layered cut in terms of cutting angle and resulting shape?
Answer: A blunt cut is made at a 0-degree elevation, pulling all hair to one level to create a single-length, solid weight line. A layered cut uses elevated sections (45–90 degrees or higher) to remove bulk and create graduated movement throughout the hair.
Question 6
Why is over-direction used in haircutting, and what effect does it produce on the final shape?
Answer: Over-direction means combing hair away from its natural fall position before cutting, which builds length in the direction opposite to where the hair was pulled, creating asymmetry, weight corners, or graduated shapes in the finished cut.
Question 7
During a haircut, a stylist accidentally nicks a client's ear and blood is visible. What is the correct immediate protocol?
Answer: Stop the service immediately, put on gloves, apply pressure with a clean single-use cotton pad, then follow the salon's bloodborne pathogen exposure plan, properly dispose of all contaminated materials, and disinfect all tools and surfaces before continuing.
Question 8
What is the first section cut in a haircut called?
Answer: Guide or guideline
Question 9
Which parting pattern is used to create a classic 90-degree uniform layer cut, and why is consistency in sections important?
Answer: Horizontal or pivoting sections are used in a uniform layer cut, with all hair elevated to 90 degrees from the head; consistent section size ensures even tension and prevents unintended length variation or holes in the cut.
Question 10
A client with high-porosity hair asks for a long-lasting blowout. What styling consideration is most important?
Answer: High-porosity hair absorbs and releases moisture rapidly, so a heat protectant plus a smoothing serum or anti-humidity product should be applied before blow-drying to seal the cuticle and extend the longevity of the style.