Nail Technology Program

Chapter 6: Manicuring

Tools, Setup, Nail Shapes, Procedure & Polish Application|37 Questions|Board Exam Prep

Student Name

Date

Instructor

Score

Vocabulary Matching

Match each numbered term with the correct lettered definition.

Terms

1.Nail file (emery board)

2.Cuticle pusher

3.Nail buffer

4.Cuticle nipper

5.Base coat

6.Top coat

7.Effleurage

8.Petrissage

9.Oval nail shape

10.Finger bowl

Definitions

A.A gentle, light stroking movement used in hand massage to begin and end the massage

B.A tool used to gently push back the eponychium from the nail plate

C.A protective polish applied before color to prevent staining and improve adhesion

D.A kneading, squeezing, and pressing massage movement that stimulates circulation

E.A tool used to smooth and shine the natural nail plate surface

F.A nail shape that mirrors the natural curve of the cuticle line, suitable for most clients

G.A clear or sheer polish applied over color to add shine and protect against chipping

H.A small bowl of warm water used to soften cuticles during a basic manicure

I.An abrasive tool used to shape the free edge of the nail to the desired shape

J.A sharp tool used to carefully trim loose, dead skin (hangnails) around the nail

Fill in the Blank

Complete each statement with the correct term or phrase.

Question 11Fill in the Blank

The five basic nail shapes are round, oval, square, squoval, and .

Question 12Fill in the Blank

When filing the nail, always file in direction (from the outside edge toward the center) to prevent splitting.

Question 13Fill in the Blank

The first step in a basic manicure procedure is to the client's hands and nails.

Question 14Fill in the Blank

Polish is applied in strokes — one down the center and one on each side of the nail.

Question 15Fill in the Blank

The purpose of soaking the fingers in warm water is to the cuticles before pushing them back.

Question 16Fill in the Blank

A nail shape is a combination of square and oval, with straight side walls and a gently rounded free edge.

Question 17Fill in the Blank

All metal implements used during a manicure must be properly between each client.

Question 18Fill in the Blank

During the hand massage portion of a manicure, the nail technician uses or oil to reduce friction and nourish the skin.

Multiple Choice

Select the best answer for each board-exam style question.

Question 19Multiple Choice

When filing the natural nail, you should:

A. File back and forth in a sawing motion

B. File in one direction from the outside edge to the center

C. File from the center outward in both directions

D. Use only a coarse-grit file on natural nails

Question 20Multiple Choice

The correct order of polish application is:

A. Color, base coat, top coat

B. Top coat, color, base coat

C. Base coat, two coats of color, top coat

D. Base coat, one coat of color, base coat, top coat

Question 21Multiple Choice

Which nail shape is best recommended for a client with wide nail beds who wants their fingers to appear longer?

A. Square

B. Round

C. Oval or almond

D. Squoval

Question 22Multiple Choice

The massage movement that involves light, gentle stroking is called:

A. Petrissage

B. Friction

C. Effleurage

D. Tapotement

Question 23Multiple Choice

The primary purpose of applying a base coat before nail polish is to:

A. Add extra color intensity

B. Prevent staining of the natural nail and improve polish adhesion

C. Speed up drying time

D. Protect the top coat from chipping

Question 24Multiple Choice

An appropriate grit for filing natural nails is:

A. 80 grit (very coarse)

B. 100 grit (coarse)

C. 180-240 grit (fine)

D. 400 grit (ultra-fine buffer)

Question 25Multiple Choice

During a manicure consultation, if you observe signs of a fungal infection on the client's nails, you should:

A. Proceed with the manicure but avoid the affected nail

B. Apply antifungal treatment and continue

C. Politely decline service and refer the client to a physician

D. Apply extra base coat to seal the infection

Question 26Multiple Choice

How many strokes are typically used to apply one coat of nail polish?

A. Two strokes

B. Three strokes

C. Five strokes

D. One stroke

True / False

Write T for True or F for False in the blank.

Question 27True / False

Filing back and forth in a sawing motion is the correct technique for natural nails.

Question 28True / False

A manicure should always begin with thorough sanitization of the technician's and client's hands.

Question 29True / False

The cuticle should be aggressively cut to create a clean look around the nail.

Question 30True / False

Lotion or oil should be completely removed from the nail plate before applying polish.

Question 31True / False

Squoval is the most popular nail shape because it combines the strength of square with the softness of oval.

Question 32True / False

Porous items like nail files and wooden sticks can be disinfected and reused between clients.

Question 33True / False

A hand massage during a manicure helps stimulate blood circulation and relaxes the client.

Question 34True / False

Top coat is applied before the base coat in the polish application process.

Short Answer

Answer each question in 2-3 complete sentences.

Question 35Short Answer

List the steps of a basic manicure procedure in order, from start to finish.

Question 36Short Answer

Describe the five basic nail shapes and explain which type of client or nail bed each shape best suits.

Question 37Short Answer

Explain the proper technique for polish application, including the number of strokes, direction, and the role of base coat and top coat.