MN Cosmetology study plan

Define and diagram the four basic haircut structures (blunt/one-length, graduated, layered, increased-length) and the elevation, distribution, and finger/still-blade angle that produces each

Identify each cutting implement (shears, thinning shears, razor, clippers, guards) and state the effect it produces on the hairline and textural weight

Explain sectioning, subsection size, and head-positioning safety for a full haircut on a mannequin

Compare wet and dry styling techniques - blow-dry with tension, thermal iron barrel sizes and curl direction, pin curls, finger waves, and roller placement - by the base, stem, and curl formation each creates

Complete four mannequin cuts, one per structure, without cross-contamination of implements between sections

Apply the law of color to predict the outcome of a tint, a tone-on-tone deposit, and a lightening service on levels 1-10

Calculate developer volume, mixing ratio (1:1, 1:2), and processing time for permanent, demi-permanent, and semi-permanent color and for powder lightener

Describe the chemical action of permanent waving and chemical relaxing on the disulfide bond, contrasting ammonium thioglycolate with sodium hydroxide and no-lye relaxers, including pH ranges

Differentiate the chemistry and proper use of a patch test, strand test, and porosity test before a chemical service

List the five most common chemical-service failures (under-processing, over-processing, banding, spotting, scalp irritation) with the cause and correction for each

Distinguish cleaning, sanitizing, disinfecting, and sterilizing and assign the correct process to each of 15 salon items

Correctly select and use an EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant, including label contact time, dilution, and safe storage

Classify implements as single-use, porous multi-use, or non-porous multi-use and state the required handling for each

Demonstrate handwashing, glove use, and blood-exposure spill cleanup procedures step by step

Identify salon safety hazards - electrical cord management, chemical storage, ventilation, wet floors, and Material Safety Data Sheet access

Outline the licensing structure under Minnesota Statutes Chapter 155A: operator, salon, and school licensure, plus the scope of practice for each license type

Describe the Board's inspection, complaint, citation, and disciplinary process and the consequences of operating on a lapsed license

Locate and record the current continuing-education hours, renewal cycle, and fee schedule published by the Minnesota Board of Cosmetologist Examiners

State the rules governing salon sanitation, record retention, and the posting of licenses in the workplace

Re-drill the week 1-3 error log until every missed item is correctly explained in writing

Analyze hair texture, porosity, elasticity, and scalp condition to select a shampoo, conditioner, and treatment for six client profiles

Demonstrate draping, shampoo manipulations, scalp massage movements, and a conditioning treatment application in correct sequence

Label the structures of the natural nail and identify the disorders and conditions that require referral rather than service

Sequence a basic manicure and pedicure from set-up through disinfection, including the correct handling of implements and porous materials

Explain the safe use and removal of nail coatings, tips, wraps, and acrylics, including monomer and primer safety

Perform a skin analysis and classify skin type and Fitzpatrick phototype, then select appropriate products and service recommendations

Sequence a basic facial including cleansing, exfoliation, massage manipulations, mask, and moisturizer, and identify contraindications for each step

Compare temporary hair-removal methods and state the pre- and post-service precautions and contraindications for each

Label the bones, muscles, and nerves of the head, face, and neck and relate each to a salon service

Explain the chemistry of pH, solutions, suspensions, and emulsions and the types of electrical current used in salon equipment, including galvanic and faradic current

Build a client consultation script that captures hair history, chemical history, lifestyle, expectations, and any contraindication before service

Calculate service pricing, retail markup, commission, and inventory turnover for a sample salon budget

Explain the ethical standards for client confidentiality, informed consent, scope of practice, and refusing a service

Re-solve ten of the hardest haircutting and chemical-formulation questions from weeks 1 and 2 without notes

Identify the required client-record contents for a chemical service and the retention period under state rules

Complete two full-length timed practice exams under test-day conditions

Build and rank an error log of every missed item by domain so the heaviest domains are re-drilled first

Re-drill the twenty weakest concepts until each is explained aloud without notes

Consolidate a one-page final reference sheet of formulas, ratios, sanitation rules, and Minnesota licensing requirements

Confirm test-day logistics - scheduling, ID, permitted materials, and site location - and complete a final readiness checklist