Haircutting and Styling
Core concepts
Haircutting questions test sectioning, elevation, distribution, and guide selection. Elevation (angle at which hair is held from the head) controls graduation and layering: 0° is blunt, 45° is graduated, 90° is uniform layer, and beyond 90° is long-layered. Distribution (natural fall vs. shifted) determines where length lands. A stationary guide stays fixed and builds length; a traveling guide moves with each section and follows the head shape. Understand the four basic cuts-blunt, graduated, uniform layer, and long layer-and which elevation and guide each uses.
Traps to watch
- Confusing elevation with distribution-they are separate variables.
- Assuming a traveling guide creates graduation; it creates a consistent, blended line following the head.
- Ignoring growth patterns, cowlicks, and whorls, which require adjusting tension and direction.
- Forgetting sanitation between clients and proper drape placement.
Styling
Blow-dryer and thermal tools: know heat protection, tension, and section size. Wet styling uses molding and shaping; dry styling uses thermal or air forming. Always check tool temperature and keep cords away from water.
Rule of thumb
Elevation = shape; guide = length. If a question asks what creates a graduated effect, the answer is elevation held at 45° with a stationary guide. If it asks what keeps the line consistent across the head, the answer is a traveling guide.