AL Nail Technician study plan

Define and distinguish cleaning, sanitizing, disinfection, and sterilization, and match each to the correct nail-implements category

Classify bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites by type and list the transmission route for each

Sequence the handwashing and PPE steps (gloves, mask, eye protection) in the correct order for a nail service

Read a product label and Safety Data Sheet to extract contact time, dilution ratio, and hazard warnings

Identify the most common sanitation violations in a salon setting and state the correct practice for each

Apply the exposure-incident procedure step by step for a blood or body-fluid contact scenario

Select the correct disinfectant type, dilution, and contact time for implements, bowls, and porous vs. nonporous items

List the pre-service steps of a manicure in correct order, from client intake and hand analysis to set-up

Demonstrate proper nail-plate preparation, shaping, and cuticle care on a model or practice hand

Explain contraindications that require a technician to stop or modify a service

Perform the full sequence of a basic manicure and a basic pedicure without skipping steps

Distinguish the correct uses of nail files, buffers, nippers, pushers, and curettes, and state the grit or grade for each task

Execute massage movements for hand, arm, foot, and lower leg in the correct direction and sequence

Identify when to refer a client with a suspected disorder instead of proceeding with the service

Compare polish application and removal techniques for natural nails, including base coat, color, and top coat layering

Explain the chemistry of adhesion, bonding, and curing as they relate to artificial nail products

Differentiate the preparation, application, and removal steps for acrylic (liquid-and-powder), gel, and nail-wrap enhancements

Select the correct monomer, polymer, primer, and gel type for a given client scenario

Identify the causes and corrections of common enhancement problems such as lifting, cracking, and discoloration

State the safe removal procedures and the risks of improper removal for each enhancement type

Apply a full set of acrylic or gel enhancements on a practice hand, from prep through finishing

Perform a safe soak-off or file-off removal without damaging the natural nail plate

Execute a fill/rebalance procedure and explain when a fill versus a full set is appropriate

Locate the Alabama cosmetology statute and board rule sections that govern licensing, sanitation, and scope of practice for nail technicians

Summarize the board's rules on implement disinfection, client records, and salon inspections

Outline the licensing pathway, renewal requirements, and continuing education rules for Alabama nail technicians

List the scope-of-practice boundaries and the violations that can lead to disciplinary action

Describe the structure and growth cycle of the natural nail plate, including the matrix, lunula, and eponychium

Identify the bones, muscles, and nerves of the hand, forearm, and lower leg relevant to massage and service safety

Distinguish the signs of common nail and skin disorders (onychomycosis, paronychia, psoriasis, melanoma) and state the referral response for each

Explain pH, acidity, alkalinity, and their effect on the nail plate and on product performance

Classify the main product categories (solvents, resins, monomers, polymers, adhesives) by chemistry and function

Read an ingredient label and identify the purpose and safety precautions of each major component

Conduct a client consultation that screens for allergies, medications, lifestyle factors, and service expectations

Document a consultation and recommend the appropriate service and products for the client profile

Retake all weekly quizzes and re-study every missed item until each is answered correctly

Complete timed practice exams weighted to the exam blueprint percentages

Drill the highest-miss topics from Weeks 1 through 7

Rehearse a full manicure, pedicure, and enhancement service end-to-end under exam timing

Build a final one-page rapid-review sheet of statutes, sanitation rules, and disorder red flags