Learn the foundational controls that determine every haircut outcome—including elevation, cutting line, over direction, tension, moisture, grooming, finger angle, sections.

Learners study the two fundamental dimensions of haircutting:

• Vertical Dimension — created by elevation and cutting line; determines how hair moves top to bottom.

• Horizontal Dimension — created by over direction and cutting line; determines directional movement front to back or side to side.

Learn how to assess the five factors that influence length and suitability decisions:

• Texture (fine, medium, coarse)

• Formation (straight, wavy, curly, coily)

• Density

• Current Condition

• Guest Preference

Using these factors, stylists learn to guide consultations and make informed, customized recommendations.

Learn how each range of elevation affects silhouette, movement, and suitability for various textures and formations. Elevation, paired with cutting line, creates the three primary vertical techniques:

• Zero Degrees (Line / One Length) — keeps weight

• 1–89 Degrees (Graduation) — builds weight

• 90°+ (Layering: Convex & Concave) — removes weight

Learn how traveling vs. stationary guides modify the amount of movement and how lower-body position supports directional intent. Students master the three categories of over direction:

• Forward → round shapes

• Backward → triangular shapes

• Forward + Backward → square shapes

Learn how to properly Cross Check both technically and visually.

Learn to analyze the head form—frontal bone, parietal ridge, mastoid process, crown, occipital, and nape—and use it to navigate technical decisions. Bone structure guides sectioning, elevation shifts, length distribution, and suitability choices.

Learn to choose sections based on haircut priority:

• Horizontal → controls the horizontal dimension

• Vertical → controls the vertical dimension

• Diagonal → balances both

This includes diagonal directions (forward or backward) and how section choice translates to consistency, control, and silhouette accuracy.

Learn how to make technique repeatable by refining the physical mechanics of cutting:

• Lower-body positioning for elevation, cutting line, and over direction

• Chair height, chair rotation, and head positioning

• Inside hand, over hand, free hand, in-comb cutting

This ensures comfort, precision, and consistency.

Learn how tool choice influences silhouette and texture:

• Scissors (wet vs. dry cutting, length, blade types)

• Thinners & Texturizers

• Razors (feather, straight, barbering blades)

• Clippers (magnetic, pivot, rotary motors)

• Trimmers & Foil Shavers

• Combs & Clips

This helps stylists match tools to desired outcomes.