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Nail technician written practice test

257 free practice questions for this exam, each with the reason for the answer and where to look it up.

Nail technology theory: practice test

10 questions, graded as you go, with the reason for every answer. No sign-up.

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About the exam

ExamNail technician written
Who runs itNIC, state boards
WhereUnited States (varies by state)

Question count, time limit and pass mark differ by where you take it. Check the official candidate bulletin from the organisation that runs your exam.

Sample questions

What is the lunula?

  1. The fold of skin running along each side of the plate
  2. The dead tissue that clings to the surface of the plate
  3. The visible part of the matrix at the base of the plate
  4. The living skin that seals the underside of the free edge
Show the answer

C. The visible part of the matrix at the base of the plate

The lunula is the whitish half-moon where the front of the matrix shows through the nail plate. The seal under the free edge is the hyponychium, a different structure.

Reference: Nail technology theory: nail structure and growth

Which initiator is blended into polymer powder to start the reaction with monomer liquid?

  1. Benzoyl peroxide
  2. Nitrocellulose
  3. Sodium hydroxide
  4. Ethyl acetate
Show the answer

A. Benzoyl peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide in the powder breaks apart to supply the energy that starts the chain reaction. Nitrocellulose is the film former in nail polish and plays no part in this reaction.

Reference: Nail technology theory: monomer liquid and polymer powder chemistry

What are Beau's lines?

  1. Dark bands running from the base to the free edge
  2. Depressions running across the width of the plate
  3. Ridges running the length of the nail plate
  4. White spots scattered over the nail plate
Show the answer

B. Depressions running across the width of the plate

Beau's lines are horizontal grooves that form when illness or injury briefly slows the matrix. Lengthwise ridges are a different and usually harmless finding.

Reference: Nail technology theory: nail disorders and diseases

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