Massachusetts Barber Practice Exam

Which hair cutting technique uses a stationary guide?

1. Layered cutting

2. Texturizing

3. Blunt cutting

4. Point cutting

The correct answer is: Blunt cutting

The technique that uses a stationary guide is blunt cutting. In blunt cutting, the stylist maintains a consistent length throughout the hair and often uses a straight-across approach. A stationary guide is established at a certain length, allowing the barber or stylist to cut all subsequent sections of hair to that same length. This results in a clean, even line, which is the defining characteristic of blunt cuts. Layered cutting typically involves varying lengths and can include moving guides as the stylist blends different lengths together. Texturizing involves techniques that remove bulk and add movement but does not rely on a stationary guide. Point cutting is a method that adds texture to the ends of the hair by cutting at an angle but is not dependent on a stationary guide either. Thus, blunt cutting stands out as the technique that fundamentally relies on a stationary guide for its execution.