NIC National Cosmetology Theory Exam — Practice Exam
Tools and safety: practice questions
Our NIC Cosmetology Theory bank has 9 questions on this topic. Here are 4 of them with answers; the full mock exam draws from every topic, like the real one.
Question 1
How should thermal tool heat be chosen?
- Highest on chemically treated hair
- The same setting for all hair types, so results are consistent from client to client
- Lower for fine, damaged or lightened hair; higher only as needed for coarse, resistant hair
- Always the highest setting for the fastest results
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C. Lower for fine, damaged or lightened hair; higher only as needed for coarse, resistant hair — Excess heat damages the cuticle and cortex.
Question 2
What should you do with a blow dryer that has a frayed cord?
- Wrap the frayed area with tape and keep using it
- Use it only on dry hair
- Use it only on low heat
- Stop using it until it is repaired or replaced
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D. Stop using it until it is repaired or replaced — Damaged cords cause shocks and fires.
Question 3
Which outlet type protects against electric shock near water, such as at a shampoo bowl?
- Two-prong ungrounded outlet
- A power strip
- Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)
- An extension cord
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C. Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) — A GFCI cuts power when it senses current leaking to ground.
Question 4
Which posture reduces strain during long hours of cutting?
- Twisting the back instead of moving your feet around the chair
- Bending at the waist to get closer to the client's head
- Keeping wrists straight and elbows close, adjusting the chair height
- Holding arms above shoulder level
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C. Keeping wrists straight and elbows close, adjusting the chair height — Good ergonomics prevent repetitive strain injuries.