Practice Test for Cosmetology State Board Exam

Achieving success in a professional certification requires more than just theoretical knowledge. It demands practical readiness and familiarity with the type of challenges that will be faced on the day of the evaluation. One of the most effective ways to prepare is by engaging in structured activities that simulate the actual conditions of the evaluation.

These preparatory sessions provide a valuable opportunity to identify strengths and areas for improvement. By working through similar scenarios, individuals can refine their skills, boost their confidence, and increase their chances of performing well. The key to success lies in consistent practice and a thorough understanding of the requirements expected during the official assessment.

Developing your skills through realistic scenarios not only prepares you mentally but also helps manage any potential stress or uncertainty. The more you immerse yourself in these preparatory experiences, the more equipped you’ll be to face the real challenge ahead. With the right approach, you can ensure that your preparation aligns with the expectations of the certification process.

Practice Test for Cosmetology State Board Exam

Preparing for an official certification evaluation can often feel overwhelming, but it’s essential to engage in activities that closely resemble the real scenario. These simulations provide an opportunity to familiarize yourself with the structure and format of the assessment. By actively participating in these exercises, you can gain confidence, pinpoint areas that need improvement, and refine your skills before the official assessment.

Benefits of Simulated Assessments

Engaging in exercises that mimic the conditions of the real certification process offers numerous advantages. These activities not only help in reinforcing theoretical knowledge but also improve your practical application of skills. The experience of working through similar tasks under time constraints allows you to identify weaknesses, build confidence, and fine-tune your approach. In addition, it helps reduce performance anxiety by making you more accustomed to the structure and timing of the official evaluation.

Key Focus Areas to Practice

During these preparatory exercises, focus on the core competencies that will be evaluated. This includes refining your technical skills, understanding the expected standards of care, and practicing communication strategies. Familiarizing yourself with common scenarios and tasks will ensure that you are prepared to handle any challenge presented during the official process. Consistent practice and review are key to achieving a successful outcome and securing your certification with confidence.

Why Practice Tests Matter for Success

Engaging in simulated evaluations is an essential step toward achieving success in any professional certification journey. These activities help familiarize candidates with the process, reduce anxiety, and build the skills necessary for performing under pressure. By participating in exercises that closely resemble the actual evaluation, individuals can better understand what to expect and improve their chances of achieving a positive outcome.

Key Benefits of Simulated Evaluations

• Improved Confidence: Repeated exposure to simulated conditions helps build confidence, making the actual evaluation feel less daunting.
• Enhanced Time Management: Practicing within time limits improves efficiency and ensures that candidates can complete all tasks on time during the official assessment.
• Identification of Weaknesses: Working through practice exercises reveals areas where improvement is needed, allowing for targeted study and skill development.
• Familiarity with Task Flow: Simulations help familiarize individuals with the structure and flow of the evaluation, reducin
  

  Key Topics Covered in Cosmetology Exams

  Professional certification evaluations assess a broad range of skills and knowledge necessary for success in the beauty and personal care industry. Candidates are tested on practical and theoretical aspects of the profession, which include both technical abilities and customer service expertise. Understanding the key areas of focus helps individuals prioritize their study efforts and ensure they are well-prepared for the challenge ahead.

  Core Areas of Focus

  • Hair Care and Styling: Knowledge of various techniques for cutting, coloring, and styling hair, including the use of tools and products.
  • Skin Care and Treatments: Understanding facial treatments, skin types, and proper techniques for moisturizing, exfoliating, and applying makeup.
  • Nail Services: Proficiency in manicures, pedicures, and nail art, as well as knowledge of sanitation and proper tool usage.
  • Safety and Hygiene: Knowledge of proper sanitation practices, sterilization techniques, and the safe handling of tools and chemicals.
  • Client Consultation and Service: Skills in customer interaction, identifying needs, recommending appropriate services, and ensuring client satisfaction.

  Additional Considerations

  • Business Practices: Basic knowledge of managing a salon or spa, including appointment scheduling, inventory control, and customer relations.
  • Legal and Ethical Standards: Understanding regulations and ethical guidelines that govern the industry, such as licensing requirements and client confidentiality.

  Mastering these core areas not only ensures a higher chance of success but also prepares candidates to perform competently in real-world scenarios. Proper preparation in each of these categories will help individuals confidently meet the requirements and pass their official evaluation.

  How to Prepare Effectively for the Test

  Successful preparation for a professional evaluation requires a structured and disciplined approach. It’s important to not only review theoretical knowledge but also to enhance practical skills and develop a clear strategy for the day of the assessment. Focusing on key areas and creating a study plan that balances both knowledge and practice will help ensure that candidates are ready for all aspects of the challenge.

  Creating a Study Schedule

  Developing a study schedule is essential for staying organized and ensuring that all necessary topics are covered. Allocate specific time for each area of study, and include both review sessions and hands-on practice. By breaking down the material into manageable chunks, candidates can avoid feeling overwhelmed and make steady progress toward their goal.

  • Prioritize Key Areas: Focus on the most critical skills and knowledge that will be assessed, such as techniques, safety protocols, and client interaction.
  • Balance Study and Rest: Ensure that there is time for relaxation and mental breaks to prevent burnout and keep the mind fresh.
  • Simulate Real Scenarios: Engage in activities that mirror the conditions of the actual assessment to build confidence and improve performance under pressure.

  Reviewing and Reassessing Knowledge

  Consistently reviewing and reassessing progress is key to effective preparation. Regularly evaluate your understanding of each topic and identify any gaps in knowledge. Use mock evaluations to track improvement and adjust your study focus as needed. Repetition and active recall help solidify learning and ensure that information is retained for the assessment.

  Tips for Managing Test Anxiety

  Feeling nervous or anxious before a professional assessment is completely normal, but managing this stress is crucial for optimal performance. Anxiety can hinder concentration, disrupt focus, and affect your ability to recall important information. By implementing effective strategies to reduce anxiety, you can improve your confidence and perform to the best of your ability.

  Breathing and Relaxation Techniques

  One of the most effective ways to manage anxiety is by using deep breathing exercises. Slow, controlled breaths can help calm the nervous system and improve focus. Practice deep breathing regularly leading up to the assessment to ensure it becomes second nature when you need it most.

  Technique	How to Perform	Benefits
  Deep Breathing	Inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4 counts, exhale for 4 counts.	Calms nerves, reduces stress, improves focus.
  Progressive Muscle Relaxation	Relax one muscle group at a time, from head to toe, while focusing on your breathing.	Releases physical tension, promotes relaxation.

  Preparation and Positive Visualization

  Being well-prepared can significantly reduce anxiety, as it gives you the confidence to tackle any challenge during the assessment. In addition to thorough preparation, positive visualization is a powerful tool. Mentally picturing yourself succeeding in the evaluation can help foster a sense of calm and self-assurance when it matters most.

  Focus on visualizing yourself performing each task with skill and confidence. Imagine the assessment as a series of manageable steps rather than one overwhelming challenge. This mental rehearsal will help reduce anxiety and improve your overall performance.

  Understanding the Format of the Exam

  Familiarizing yourself with the structure of a professional certification evaluation is key to success. Knowing what to expect on the day of the assessment allows you to prepare more effectively and manage your time wisely. The evaluation typically consists of different components designed to test both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in a real-world setting.

  Types of Sections in the Evaluation

  The assessment is usually divided into several parts, each focusing on a different aspect of the profession. These sections may include:

  • Written Portion: This section tests your knowledge of theory, regulations, and procedures. It often includes multiple-choice questions and true/false statements.
  • Practical Portion: Here, you will demonstrate your technical skills in areas such as hair cutting, skin care, or nail treatments, typically under the observation of evaluators.
  • Oral Portion: In some cases, candidates may be asked to explain the steps of a procedure or answer questions related to client safety and sanitation practices.

  Time and Scoring Details

  Each section of the evaluation is typically timed, with specific limits for completing different tasks. It’s important to manage your time efficiently to ensure that all tasks are completed. Scoring usually takes into account both the accuracy of your work and your adherence to safety protocols. Familiarity with the time constraints and scoring criteria can help you focus on what matters most during the evaluation.

  Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Test

  During a professional assessment, even small mistakes can impact your overall performance. Understanding common pitfalls and learning how to avoid them can make a significant difference in your results. Being aware of potential errors and preparing accordingly will help you stay focused and confident throughout the process.

  Common Errors to Watch Out For

  • Neglecting Time Management: Failing to allocate enough time for each task can result in incomplete work or rushed performance. Plan your time carefully and stick to it.
  • Overlooking Safety Protocols: Not following proper sanitation procedures or ignoring safety guidelines can lead to point deductions. Always prioritize cleanliness and safety in every task.
  • Rushing Through Steps: Speeding through the process in an attempt to finish quickly often results in sloppy work. Focus on precision and quality, even if it means taking a little extra time.
  • Skipping Instructions: Ignoring specific instructions or forgetting to follow key steps can cost you valuable points. Always pay close attention to what’s asked and follow directions carefully.
  • Underestimating Practical Skills: Relying too much on theoretical knowledge and neglecting hands-on skills can negatively impact your performance. Ensure you are well-prepared in both areas.

  How to Avoid These Mistakes

  • Practice Time Management: Get accustomed to working within set time limits during your preparation to improve efficiency.
  • Focus on Cleanliness: Always make sanitation a top priority, even when not explicitly instructed to do so.
  • Double-Check Your Work: Review your work when possible to ensure every step is completed correctly.
  • Stick to the Plan: Follow a consistent and organized approach to each task to avoid skipping important steps.

  By being mindful of these common mistakes and preparing accordingly, you can enter your evaluation with the confidence needed to succeed and demonstrate your skills effectively.

  Time Management Strategies for Exam Day

  Effective time management on the day of your assessment is essential for success. By planning and pacing yourself throughout the process, you can ensure that each task is completed efficiently without feeling rushed. It is important to remain focused, organized, and aware of time constraints to make the most of every moment and perform at your best.

  Essential Time Management Techniques

  Implementing a time management plan can significantly improve your ability to stay on track and reduce stress during your evaluation. Below are some key techniques to consider:

  Strategy	How to Apply	Benefits
  Allocate Time for Each Section	Before the assessment, review the tasks and assign specific time limits to each one. Practice staying within these time frames beforehand.	Helps ensure that you don’t spend too much time on any one section, allowing you to complete all tasks on time.
  Use a Timer	During the evaluation, set a timer for each segment to remind yourself when it’s time to move on to the next part.	Keeps you aware of time passing and helps you stay on track without feeling rushed.
  Prioritize Key Tasks	Identify the most critical or time-consuming tasks and tackle them first when you’re still focused and energized.	Ensures that the most important aspects are covered thoroughly without feeling pressured toward the end.

  Additional Tips for Staying On Track

  • Keep Calm: Manage anxiety by staying composed, which helps you make quicker decisions and avoid mistakes.
  • Review Quickly: Reserve a brief period after each task to double-check your work without obsessing over small details.
  • Break Tasks into Steps: If a task f
    

    What to Expect During the Practical Exam

    The hands-on assessment is a key part of your professional qualification process. This section is designed to evaluate your ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. During this part of the evaluation, you will be asked to demonstrate specific skills and techniques in a controlled environment, with a focus on precision, efficiency, and safety. Understanding the structure and expectations of this segment will help you prepare and reduce anxiety on the day of the evaluation.

    Key Components of the Practical Assessment

    Each task in the practical evaluation is designed to test your proficiency in a range of skills. Here are the main components you can expect:

    • Hands-On Tasks: You will perform various tasks that showcase your practical abilities, such as applying products, using tools, and following step-by-step procedures.
    • Time Constraints: Each task has a specific time limit, so efficient use of time is essential to ensure completion within the allotted period.
    • Evaluation Criteria: Your work will be assessed based on accuracy, technique, safety practices, and the final results.
    • Supervision: An evaluator or examiner will be present to observe and assess your skills throughout the entire practical section.

    Preparation Tips for the Practical Section

    • Know the Tasks: Familiarize yourself with the common tasks and skills required in the assessment. Practice these skills regularly to build confidence.
    • Focus on Precision: Attention to detail is critical. Make sure each step is performed correctly, and always follow the proper procedures.
    • Stay Organized: Organize your tools and materials before starting to ensure smooth transitions between tasks and prevent unnecessary delays.
    • Maintain Calm: Stay composed under pressure to help you stay focused and avoid mistakes during the assessment.

    By understanding the format of the practical segment and preparing accordingly, you will be ready to confidently demonstrate your skills and abilities on the day of your assessment.

    Essential Resources for Cosmetology Students

    Students aiming to excel in their field must have access to various tools and materials that support their learning and skill development. Whether through textbooks, online platforms, or hands-on practice, having the right resources is essential for success. This section explores the most valuable assets that can help learners prepare effectively and build confidence as they advance in their training.

    Key Study Materials

    Comprehensive study materials are the cornerstone of effective learning. These resources offer both theoretical knowledge and practical insights into the techniques students will need to master. Consider these important tools:

    • Comprehensive Guides: In-depth textbooks and manuals provide the foundation for understanding key concepts and procedures that students must learn.
    • Online Learning Platforms: Interactive websites and apps offer tutorials, quizzes, and learning modules that enhance understanding through engaging content.
    • Instructional Videos: Visual resources such as videos can help students grasp complicated techniques by offering step-by-step demonstrations.

    Hands-On Tools and Equipment

    

    In addition to study guides, it’s important to use the correct tools and equipment for hands-on learning. These resources help develop practical skills and prepare students for real-world applications:

    • Professional Kits: Investing in quality tools that mirror those used in professional environments allows students to familiarize themselves with the equipment they’ll use.
    • Mannequins and Practice Stations: Using practice tools like mannequins helps students refine their techniques and simulate real client interactions.
    • Workshops and Clinics: Participating in supervised group sessions or workshops provides an opportunity to practice skills in a supportive, interactive environment.

    By utilizing these essential resources, students can gain the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to succeed in their careers. A combination of study materials and practical tools ensures a well-rounded approach to learning and professional growth.

    How to Assess Your Practice Test Results

    Evaluating your performance after completing a simulated assessment is crucial for understanding where you stand and identifying areas for improvement. This process goes beyond just looking at your score; it’s about analyzing your strengths and weaknesses to adjust your preparation strategy. By assessing your results effectively, you can focus on specific areas that need attention and increase your chances of success when it matters most.

    To assess your results accurately, start by reviewing the questions you answered incorrectly. This will help you pinpoint knowledge gaps or areas where your technique needs refinement. Ask yourself the following:

    • What concepts did I struggle with? Identify the topics or techniques that were most challenging.
    • Why did I answer incorrectly? Was it a misunderstanding of the material, a lack of practice, or a time management issue?
    • Which areas did I perform well in? Recognizing your strengths allows you to reinforce them and feel more confident moving forward.

    After identifying your weaknesses, create a focused study plan that targets these areas. Use additional resources, such as instructional videos or practice scenarios, to enhance your understanding and skills. The goal is not only to improve your weaker areas but to continue practicing your strengths, so you can perform at your best under any conditions.

    Remember, assessing your results is a continuous process. As you progress through your preparation, periodically review your performance to ensure you’re on track. With careful evaluation and targeted practice, you’ll build the skills needed to succeed in the real assessment.

    Benefits of Taking Multiple Practice Tests

    Engaging in repeated simulations of the real assessment process provides several advantages. By testing yourself multiple times, you gain a deeper understanding of the material and develop essential skills that help boost your performance. These repetitions allow you to fine-tune your knowledge, improve your time management, and reduce anxiety, which are all critical factors in achieving success.

    One of the primary benefits of taking multiple simulations is the reinforcement of key concepts. The more you encounter the same types of questions, the better you can internalize the information. This helps solidify your understanding and reduces the likelihood of forgetting important details during the actual event.

    • Improved Familiarity: Repeated exposure to the content increases your comfort level and helps you recognize patterns in the questions.
    • Enhanced Time Management: Regular practice helps you gauge how much time to spend on each section, enabling you to complete the entire assessment within the allotted time.
    • Reduced Anxiety: Familiarity with the format and structure of the process can help ease nerves and boost confidence.

    Additionally, taking multiple simulations enables you to track your progress over time. By reviewing each attempt, you can identify areas of improvement, celebrate growth, and adjust your strategy as needed. This ongoing feedback loop ensures that you are consistently refining your skills and preparing yourself for the real challenge ahead.

    Ultimately, the repetition of these exercises sharpens both your knowledge and your mental preparedness, making it more likely that you’ll perform at your best during the actual evaluation.

    Staying Motivated Throughout Your Study

    Maintaining focus and enthusiasm during long study sessions can be challenging, especially when preparing for something as important as a major qualification. However, staying motivated is key to ensuring consistent progress and success. By setting clear goals and creating a structured study plan, you can stay on track and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

    Set Clear and Achievable Goals

    Start by breaking down the material into manageable sections. This allows you to focus on one topic at a time, which can reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed. Establish short-term and long-term goals to track your progress and celebrate small victories along the way. These milestones can provide a sense of accomplishment and keep you moving forward.

    Find Your Motivation Triggers

    Everyone has different reasons for wanting to succeed. Some people are motivated by the potential rewards, such as a successful career or personal achievement. Others may be driven by the challenge itself. Identify what motivates you the most and use it as a constant reminder of why you’re putting in the effort. Whether it’s a dream job or the sense of mastering a difficult skill, keeping this goal in mind can push you through even the toughest study days.

    Stay Positive and Keep Going – Remember that progress isn’t always linear. Some days will be harder than others, but persistence is the key to success. By maintaining a positive mindset and focusing on the reasons you’re studying, you’ll be able to overcome challenges and stay motivated throughout your journey.

    Best Study Habits for Cosmetology Students

    Effective learning requires discipline and consistency, especially when preparing for a specialized certification. Developing solid study habits not only enhances knowledge retention but also helps to build confidence when facing practical and theoretical assessments. By focusing on the right techniques, students can maximize their potential and feel fully prepared for any challenge that lies ahead.

    Organize Your Study Time

    One of the most important habits is managing your time effectively. Create a realistic study schedule that includes time for both theory and hands-on practice. Prioritize areas that require more attention, but ensure that you regularly review all material to keep your knowledge fresh. By breaking study sessions into smaller, focused periods with breaks in between, you can maintain energy and focus without feeling overwhelmed.

    Utilize Hands-On Practice

    While theory is essential, practical skills are just as important. Dedicate time to working with tools, performing techniques, and simulating real-life scenarios. This hands-on experience not only builds muscle memory but also prepares you to handle any situation with confidence. Working with peers or instructors can also provide valuable feedback, helping you refine your skills further.

    Incorporating these habits into your routine will set you up for success, ensuring that you’re well-prepared for any challenge and ready to perform at your best.

    How to Use Study Groups for Better Learning

    Collaborating with others can significantly enhance your learning process. Study groups allow you to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and approach difficult topics from different perspectives. By working together, you can not only reinforce your understanding of key concepts but also gain insights that you might not have considered on your own.

    Benefits of Study Groups

    Here are a few advantages of joining or forming a study group:

    • Increased Motivation: Having a group to study with keeps you accountable and motivated, as it’s easier to stay focused when others are working alongside you.
    • Shared Knowledge: Each member brings unique strengths and knowledge, allowing you to learn from their expertise and clarify any doubts more effectively.
    • Diverse Perspectives: A group setting allows for a range of viewpoints, helping you approach complex material from different angles.
    • Better Problem Solving: When facing challenges, group discussions can help brainstorm solutions and make difficult concepts easier to understand.

    How to Maximize Study Group Effectiveness

    To make the most of a study group, it’s essential to establish a few guidelines:

    • Set Clear Goals: Before each session, decide on the topics or material you want to cover to ensure the group stays on track.
    • Participate Actively: Engage in discussions, ask questions, and share your knowledge to foster a collaborative environment.
    • Stay Organized: Keep track of important points discussed, and ensure everyone has access to study materials or notes.
    • Respect Each Other’s Time: Make sure everyone is equally involved and committed to the study session to avoid wasting time.

    When used effectively, study groups provide a powerful tool for reinforcing what you’ve learned, offering a collaborative learning experience that can enhance both your understanding and retention of material.

    Understanding the Scoring System

    Grasping the way scores are calculated is essential to preparing effectively. Knowing how performance is evaluated can help you focus on the right areas and understand the significance of different types of questions or tasks. Scoring often involves a combination of multiple-choice questions and hands-on practical assessments, with each section weighted differently to reflect its importance.

    Types of Scoring

    

    The scoring system typically divides into two categories:

    • Written Component: The written portion often tests theoretical knowledge and problem-solving abilities. The scoring is usually based on the number of correct responses, and sometimes there is partial credit for nearly correct answers.
    • Practical Component: This part evaluates your ability to perform tasks in a real-world setting. Scoring for hands-on skills may take into account accuracy, technique, and time management, with specific criteria assigned to different actions.

    Interpreting Your Score

    Once you’ve completed the assessment, it’s important to understand what your score means:

    • Pass/Fail: In many cases, a minimum score must be achieved to pass. If you meet or exceed this threshold, you will be deemed successful, while falling short may require retaking parts of the evaluation.
    • Score Breakdown: Some evaluations offer a detailed score breakdown, showing how you performed in each section. Reviewing these scores can help identify areas where you may need further improvement.

    Having a clear understanding of how your results are calculated allows you to focus your study efforts on the areas that will have the most significant impact on your success. Keep in mind that a balanced approach, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, is key to excelling in any evaluation.

    How to Build Confidence Before the Exam

    Building confidence ahead of a major assessment is crucial to success. When you approach the challenge with a positive mindset and a sense of readiness, you are more likely to perform at your best. Confidence doesn’t come naturally to everyone, but it can be developed through careful preparation, mental practices, and a proactive attitude. By mastering key skills and learning to manage stress, you can boost your self-assurance and tackle any obstacle with ease.

    Preparation Strategies to Enhance Confidence

    Effective preparation is the cornerstone of self-confidence. The more you know and the more familiar you are with what to expect, the less anxious you will feel. Here are some proven strategies to help you build confidence before the assessment:

    Strategy	Benefit
    Simulate Real Conditions	Recreating the exact environment you’ll face during the assessment helps ease anxiety and boosts familiarity.
    Frequent Review	Reviewing material regularly keeps important concepts fresh and enhances recall, giving you more control.
    Track Progress	Measuring improvements over time shows how far you’ve come, reinforcing a sense of accomplishment and growth.
    Focus on Strengths	By honing your strongest skills, you gain confidence in your ability to perform well under pressure.

    Mindset Techniques to Build Confidence

    In addition to preparation, cultivating the right mindset plays a vital role in boosting confidence. Here are some mental strategies that can help you feel more self-assured:

    • Visualization: Imagine yourself performing successfully. Visualization creates a mental blueprint that can reduce anxiety and e
      

      What to Do the Day Before the Test

      The day before an important evaluation is essential for preparing both mentally and physically. This time should be used to consolidate knowledge, ensure readiness, and set a calm, positive mindset. It’s important to avoid overloading yourself with new information and focus on creating an environment that supports clear thinking and confidence.

      1. Review Key Points, But Don’t Overwhelm Yourself

      Rather than cramming in hours of studying, focus on reviewing key concepts that need a final brush-up. Go over summaries, flashcards, or notes on areas where you feel less confident. The goal is to reinforce what you already know without overwhelming your mind with new material, which could lead to unnecessary stress.

      2. Prepare Your Materials in Advance

      Having everything ready the night before will prevent last-minute panic. Make sure you’ve gathered all the necessary documents, tools, or supplies you need for the next day. Double-check your list to ensure that nothing is left behind, so you can start the day feeling organized and prepared.

      3. Get a Good Night’s Sleep

      Rest is critical to ensuring your mind functions at its best. Aim for a full night’s sleep to allow your brain to process and consolidate information. Avoid staying up late, as a lack of sleep will affect your focus, memory, and cognitive performance the next day. A well-rested mind will help you stay sharp and calm.

      4. Eat a Healthy Meal

      Fuel your body with a nutritious meal to provide lasting energy. Choose foods that include whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid heavy meals or overly rich foods that might leave you feeling sluggish or uncomfortable. A balanced meal will keep you energized and focused during the evaluation.

      5. Relax and Unwind

      Take time to relax and clear your mind. Engage in a calming activity such as reading, stretching, or meditation. Avoid stressing about the upcoming event. Instead, focus on staying positive and confident. Deep breathing exercises can help reduce any nervousness and allow you to approach the challenge with clarity and poise.

      The day before the evaluation should be about light preparation and relaxation. By reviewing the material, preparing your essentials, getting rest, and relaxing, you will be setting yourself up for success. This balance of preparation and calm will ensure you are in the best possible shape when the time comes.