State board barber observe check: Prepare to overcome the challenges of your barbering profession! This complete information dives deep into the world of observe checks, revealing every part from the check’s format and construction to the important expertise and data wanted for fulfillment. We’ll cowl varied check sorts, spotlight key ideas, supply efficient research methods, and even expose widespread errors that can assist you keep away from pitfalls alongside the best way.
Put together in your journey to changing into an authorized barber with confidence!
Navigating the complexities of state board barber observe checks can really feel daunting. This useful resource will simplify the method, offering clear explanations, useful examples, and actionable methods to make your preparation a breeze. From figuring out the various kinds of inquiries to mastering efficient research methods, we’ll equip you with the instruments you might want to ace the examination and confidently embark in your barbering profession.
Introduction to State Board Barber Apply Exams

Cracking the state board barber examination is not nearly memorization; it is about demonstrating mastery of your craft. These observe checks are your key to success, providing a simulated expertise of the actual factor. They’re designed that can assist you pinpoint areas needing further consideration and construct confidence earlier than the large day.These observe checks are essential instruments within the barbering journey.
They’re greater than only a overview; they are a dynamic alternative to refine your expertise and reinforce your data. A well-prepared barber, outfitted with a strong understanding of the fabric, is extra seemingly to reach the examination and finally ship distinctive service to their shoppers.
Format and Construction of the Exams
State board barber observe checks sometimes comply with a structured format, mirroring the precise examination. This consistency ensures equity and helps you become familiar with the check surroundings. They usually embody a mix of multiple-choice questions and sensible situations, mimicking real-world conditions.
Abilities and Data Assessed
The observe checks assess a variety of expertise and data important for a profitable barber. This encompasses not solely theoretical data but in addition sensible expertise and the power to use that data in an expert context. They transcend easy memorization, focusing in your understanding of shopper security, hygiene, and the power to supply high quality providers.
Evaluation Classes
These checks consider varied elements of your barbering skills. A complete understanding is crucial for efficient efficiency. Beneath is a breakdown of the important thing areas assessed.
Talent Class | Description | Instance Questions |
---|---|---|
Shopper Session | Understanding shopper wants, preferences, and issues. Assessing the shopper’s hair kind and situation to suggest applicable providers. | “What elements needs to be thought-about when discussing a haircut with a shopper?” |
Security and Sanitation | Sustaining a sterile and hygienic work surroundings to stop the unfold of an infection. Following correct sterilization procedures for instruments and gear. | “Clarify the significance of utilizing disposable instruments throughout a haircut.” |
Hair Slicing Strategies | Demonstrating proficiency in varied haircutting methods, together with precision reducing, layering, and texturizing. Adapting methods to totally different hair sorts. | “Describe the steps concerned in making a fade haircut.” |
Styling Strategies | Executing varied hair styling methods, similar to blow-drying, curling, and straightening. Demonstrating experience in creating desired types. | “What elements decide the most effective styling product for a selected hair kind?” |
Hair Coloring and Chemical Providers | Demonstrating data and expertise in hair coloring, perming, and different chemical providers. Understanding the dangers and advantages of various chemical remedies. | “Clarify the method for mixing and making use of hair shade safely.” |
Sorts of Apply Exams
Navigating the complexities of state barber licensing exams can really feel overwhelming. Understanding the assorted forms of observe checks out there is vital to efficient preparation. Completely different testing codecs and content material variations can tremendously impression your success. These checks are meticulously crafted to copy the precise expertise, serving to you confidently strategy the actual examination.Completely different state boards have distinctive necessities for barber licensing.
This leads to variations within the content material and problem of the observe checks. The format of the questions can also differ, making it essential to discover the out there choices to seek out the most effective match in your wants. This complete overview will equip you with the data to pick essentially the most appropriate observe checks.
Content material Variations Throughout State Boards
State barbering licensing exams usually mirror the particular necessities of every state. Apply checks ought to mirror these necessities. Which means content material focus might differ from state to state. For instance, some states would possibly emphasize particular methods or instruments extra closely than others. This understanding will mean you can tailor your research plan to satisfy the calls for of your specific examination.
Query Format Variety
Varied query codecs are generally employed in barber observe checks. A number of-choice questions are a frequent format, requiring you to pick the proper reply from a set of choices. Matching questions, the place you join phrases to their definitions or procedures to their outcomes, are additionally prevalent. Fill-in-the-blank and essay-style questions are utilized in some checks to evaluate your skill to recall data and apply it to totally different conditions.
Comparability of Apply Take a look at Sorts
Take a look at Kind | Content material Focus | Query Format | Issue Stage |
---|---|---|---|
A number of-Alternative | Data-based questions overlaying varied elements of barbering | Deciding on the proper reply from a variety of choices | Typically thought-about medium problem |
Matching | Connecting ideas, procedures, and terminology | Pairing objects from two columns | Can range in problem primarily based on the complexity of the pairings |
Fill-in-the-Clean | Assessing recall of key data and terminology | Finishing sentences or statements | Typically thought-about reasonable problem |
Essay-style | Evaluating your skill to use data and cause by way of complicated situations | Explaining ideas, procedures, or addressing particular conditions | Usually thought-about excessive problem requiring in-depth data |
Particular Areas of Focus
Apply checks are designed to cowl a variety of essential matters. This consists of shopper session, security protocols, sanitation and sterilization procedures, varied haircutting methods, and styling strategies. In addition they embody data of instruments and gear, understanding scalp situations, and recognizing totally different hair sorts and textures. These are sometimes categorized and weighted to align with state-specific necessities.
Key Ideas and Abilities
Aceing your state board barber observe checks hinges on a strong grasp of elementary ideas and a eager eye for element. This part dives deep into the crucial parts, providing sensible examples and methods to overcome these assessments. Put together to raise your barbering prowess and confidently navigate the complexities of those essential checks.Mastering these ideas is not nearly memorization; it is about understanding thewhy* behind every method and precept.
This understanding lets you apply your data in numerous conditions, a key differentiator between a superb barber and an awesome one. We’ll Artikel important matters, spotlight widespread pitfalls, and furnish you with confirmed strategies to optimize your research habits and obtain the specified outcomes.
Important Barbering Strategies
Barbering observe checks demand an intensive understanding of varied methods. These methods embody every part from haircutting and styling to beard trimming and shaving. A strong grasp of those strategies is paramount for fulfillment.
- Haircutting Strategies: A variety of reducing methods, together with the scissor-over-comb methodology, the purpose reducing method, and varied layering strategies, are essential. Understanding the appliance of those methods on totally different hair sorts and textures is important for producing constant and interesting outcomes.
- Styling Strategies: This entails mastering varied styling instruments and merchandise, together with understanding the right way to obtain particular types, from basic fades to up to date designs. Apply utilizing totally different merchandise and instruments to get a really feel for the impact on totally different hair sorts.
- Beard Trimming and Shaving: This encompasses quite a lot of methods, together with beard shaping and sculpting, and totally different shaving strategies. Understanding the right way to tailor these strategies to particular person facial constructions and preferences is crucial.
Widespread Errors on Apply Exams
Candidates usually fall into predictable traps when tackling these checks. By recognizing these widespread errors, you may proactively keep away from them.
- Dashing by way of the check: It is tempting to hurry, however accuracy trumps velocity. Taking your time to rigorously overview every query and making use of the ideas appropriately will result in higher success.
- Neglecting to totally overview the check materials: Merely going by way of the questions as soon as is not sufficient. Actively reviewing the offered data and practising the methods with the correct focus is crucial.
- Overlooking particular particulars: Many questions include delicate however essential particulars. Pay shut consideration to those to keep away from lacking essential parts.
Key Subjects Coated
This part particulars the important matters often showing in these observe checks.
Idea | Rationalization | Instance |
---|---|---|
Hair Texture Evaluation | Figuring out and understanding totally different hair textures, together with straight, wavy, curly, and coily, and the way they reply to varied styling methods. | Recognizing {that a} curly hair minimize requires a distinct strategy than a straight hair minimize. |
Scalp and Hair Well being | Understanding the connection between scalp well being and hair high quality. Understanding the assorted hair and scalp situations, and the corresponding remedies and preventative measures is vital. | Figuring out indicators of scalp irritation and understanding how hair well being impacts styling methods. |
Shopper Session | Efficient communication and lively listening expertise are paramount. This entails understanding shopper preferences, expectations, and issues. | Creating a cushty environment the place the shopper feels heard and understood. |
Finest Practices for Finding out
Finding out for these checks successfully requires a strategic strategy. It isn’t nearly cramming; it is about understanding and making use of the data.
- Create a research schedule: Allocate particular time slots for devoted research, guaranteeing you cowl all of the important matters.
- Make the most of observe checks: Use observe checks to establish areas needing additional consideration and acquire confidence in your data.
- Search clarification on areas of confusion: Do not hesitate to ask for assist or clarification from skilled barbers or mentors.
Efficient Research Methods
Unlocking your potential for fulfillment on the state board barber observe checks hinges on efficient research methods. These aren’t simply rote memorization methods; they’re pathways to deep understanding and lasting talent acquisition. By understanding the nuances of your studying type and adopting methods tailor-made to your strengths, you may optimize your preparation and confidently strategy the checks.Efficient research methods are essential for fulfillment on the state board barber observe checks.
They transcend merely memorizing details; they contain growing a deep understanding of the fabric, which is crucial for making use of that data in real-world situations. A well-structured strategy to studying, coupled with centered time administration, considerably improves your probabilities of reaching a excessive rating.
Confirmed Methods for Finding out
A multifaceted strategy to finding out, incorporating lively recall, spaced repetition, and observe checks, is confirmed to yield exceptional outcomes. These strategies reinforce your data and improve retention, fostering a deeper understanding of the fabric.
- Energetic Recall: As an alternative of passively rereading your research supplies, actively have interaction with them. Ask your self questions in regards to the content material, attempt to recall solutions from reminiscence, after which overview the proper responses. This system strengthens neural pathways related to the knowledge, making it simpler to entry and recall throughout the examination.
- Spaced Repetition: Evaluation your supplies at rising intervals. This methodology, borrowed from reminiscence analysis, reinforces the training course of by testing your data at progressively longer intervals. That is simpler than cramming and helps to construct lasting retention.
- Apply Exams: Simulating the examination surroundings by way of observe checks is essential. These checks not solely assess your data but in addition enable you turn out to be aware of the format, timing constraints, and forms of questions you may encounter on the precise examination.
Efficient Time Administration Strategies, State board barber observe check
Time administration is paramount in any check preparation, notably when coping with a rigorous syllabus. A structured strategy lets you allocate enough time to every subject, guaranteeing thorough understanding with out feeling rushed.
- Create a Research Schedule: Allocate particular time slots for finding out every subject. Break down massive duties into smaller, manageable chunks to keep away from feeling overwhelmed. Be sensible in regards to the time wanted for every part, and construct in buffer time for sudden occasions.
- Prioritize Duties: Establish the matters that require essentially the most consideration primarily based on their complexity or your perceived weaknesses. Focus your research efforts on these areas first, after which deal with the better ones.
- Take Common Breaks: Breaks are important for sustaining focus and stopping burnout. Brief, common breaks can considerably enhance your focus and productiveness throughout research classes.
Completely different Studying Types and Strategies
Understanding your studying type is essential for optimizing your research strategy. Completely different people be taught greatest in varied methods.
- Visible Learners: Visible aids, diagrams, and thoughts maps will be extremely useful. Think about creating visible representations of key ideas to assist in memorization and understanding.
- Auditory Learners: File your self explaining ideas or take heed to lectures and recordings associated to the fabric. Discussions with friends or tutors may also be useful.
- Kinesthetic Learners: Palms-on actions, sensible workouts, and role-playing can considerably improve studying. Think about practising methods and procedures repeatedly to bolster your understanding.
Efficient Methods for Memorizing and Recalling Data
Reminiscence methods can tremendously enhance your skill to recall data throughout the check.
- Mnemonic Gadgets: These reminiscence aids, similar to acronyms, rhymes, and visible imagery, may help you affiliate data with memorable cues, making it simpler to recall.
- Chunking: Break down massive items of knowledge into smaller, extra manageable models. This helps you course of and keep in mind the fabric extra successfully.
- Elaboration: Join new data to what you already know. Relate ideas to private experiences or examples to reinforce understanding and retention.
Research Strategies with Benefits and Disadvantages
Research Method | Benefits | Disadvantages |
---|---|---|
Flashcards | Environment friendly for memorizing details and definitions; moveable | Might not be appropriate for complicated ideas; can turn out to be tedious |
Apply Exams | Identifies data gaps; simulates examination surroundings | Could be demanding; requires time dedication |
Group Research | Collaborative studying; numerous views | Could be distracting; requires coordination |
Thoughts Mapping | Visible illustration of ideas; aids understanding | Could be time-consuming for detailed matters |
Widespread Errors and Find out how to Keep away from Them
Navigating the state board barber observe checks is usually a thrilling journey, however like several journey, it is crammed with potential pitfalls. Understanding widespread errors and the right way to sidestep them is essential for fulfillment. This part dives into these pitfalls and gives actionable methods to make sure you’re well-equipped to ace the check.Understanding what traps to keep away from is commonly extra priceless than understanding the appropriate solutions.
This part helps you notice widespread errors, comprehend why they happen, and discover ways to avoid them. It is about constructing not simply data, but in addition a resilient strategy to the testing course of.
Figuring out Widespread Errors
Widespread errors usually stem from a scarcity of full understanding, poor time administration, or overlooking essential particulars. Take a look at-takers generally get slowed down in complicated situations, shedding sight of the elemental ideas. Others might rush by way of questions, resulting in careless errors. It is necessary to strategy the observe checks with a strategic mindset, moderately than simply making an attempt to memorize solutions.
Causes Behind the Errors
Usually, test-takers rush by way of the questions with out absolutely greedy the nuances of every state of affairs. A scarcity of focus and a spotlight to element can result in misinterpretations and incorrect solutions. Generally, preconceived notions or assumptions in regards to the materials can cloud judgment and hinder correct evaluation. It is essential to stay grounded within the details and keep away from leaping to conclusions.
Sensible Recommendation for Avoiding Errors
Thorough preparation is vital. Evaluation all related supplies a number of occasions, guaranteeing a robust grasp of the subject material. Create a research schedule and persist with it, guaranteeing you allot ample time for every part. Working towards below timed situations will assist develop your time administration expertise and construct confidence.
Misconceptions About Apply Exams
Some imagine observe checks are merely a way to familiarize themselves with the format. Nonetheless, observe checks are invaluable instruments for figuring out weaknesses and refining expertise. They supply alternatives to pinpoint areas the place additional research is required. In addition they supply priceless insights into test-taking methods. Make the most of these observe checks to proactively deal with your vulnerabilities and strengthen your strengths.
Desk of Widespread Errors, Causes, and Options
Widespread Mistake | Trigger | Efficient Resolution |
---|---|---|
Dashing by way of questions | Lack of focus, poor time administration | Apply timed classes, break down complicated issues, prioritize key ideas. |
Misinterpreting situations | Inadequate understanding of particulars, overlooking essential data | Learn every query rigorously, underline key phrases, and analyze the state of affairs from a number of views. |
Overlooking necessary particulars | Lack of consideration to element, speeding by way of questions | Make use of lively studying methods, double-check your work, give attention to the specifics of every query. |
Incorrect utility of ideas | Poor understanding of the core ideas, counting on rote memorization | Evaluation foundational ideas, use examples to solidify understanding, give attention to the underlying logic behind the ideas. |
Lack of time administration | Inefficient methods, poor prioritization | Develop a customized technique for every part, observe timed classes, and handle your time successfully. |
Apply Take a look at Examples and Options
Aceing your state board barber observe checks is like nailing an ideal fade – it takes observe and the appropriate strategy. This part dives deep into pattern questions and their options, serving to you establish widespread pitfalls and construct confidence in your expertise. We’ll break down totally different query sorts, displaying you varied methods to strategy them.Understanding the right way to analyze and remedy observe questions is essential for fulfillment on the actual state board examination.
This part will furnish you with the instruments and methods to overcome the challenges which will lie forward.
A number of-Alternative Questions
A number of-choice questions are a standard format on many state board barber observe checks. They assess your data of varied barbering methods, security protocols, and shopper session. A powerful basis in these areas is crucial.
- Query: Which of the next is a very powerful think about sustaining a protected and sanitary barbering surroundings?
- Choices: a) Utilizing clear towels, b) Disinfecting gear between shoppers, c) Sustaining a tidy workspace, d) All the above.
- Resolution: The proper reply is d) All the above. A protected and sanitary surroundings encompasses all three elements – clear towels, disinfected gear, and a tidy workspace. Every is essential to stopping the unfold of an infection.
- Rationalization: This query checks your understanding of fundamental sanitation and security protocols. All three listed choices are important for sustaining a hygienic surroundings, demonstrating the interconnectedness of those practices.
- Query: What’s the main perform of a pre-shave conditioner?
- Choices: a) To melt the beard, b) To moisturize the pores and skin, c) To guard the pores and skin from irritation, d) All the above.
- Resolution: The proper reply is d) All the above. Pre-shave conditioners accomplish all these features, making ready the pores and skin for a easy and comfy shave.
- Rationalization: This query assesses your understanding of product features. The pre-shave conditioner serves a multi-faceted objective, making it an integral a part of the shaving course of.
Matching Questions
Matching questions check your skill to attach ideas and procedures. They usually require you to correlate totally different elements of barbering, like haircutting methods to particular hair sorts.
- Query: Match the next haircutting methods with their corresponding hair sorts:
- Listing A: a) Taper, b) Undercut, c) Layered minimize
- Listing B: i) Effective, straight hair, ii) Thick, curly hair, iii) Medium-length, wavy hair
- Resolution: a) Taper – iii) Medium-length, wavy hair, b) Undercut – ii) Thick, curly hair, c) Layered minimize – i) Effective, straight hair.
- Rationalization: Matching questions necessitate an intensive understanding of the connection between methods and hair sorts. The answer demonstrates the proper pairings.
Essay-Kind Questions
Essay-type questions require a complete understanding of a selected subject. They could ask you to explain a particular process or analyze a posh shopper state of affairs.
- Query: Clarify the significance of correct shopper session within the barbering occupation.
- Resolution: Correct shopper session is essential for establishing rapport, understanding shopper wants, and guaranteeing a profitable end result. It entails actively listening to the shopper’s wishes, assessing their hair kind and situation, and discussing expectations.
- Rationalization: This query necessitates an in depth understanding of shopper session, highlighting its position in each the creative and sensible elements of barbering.
Sources and Instruments for Preparation

Aceing your state board barber observe check is simpler than you assume! With the appropriate sources and instruments, you may construct your confidence and solidify your expertise. This part Artikels priceless aids that can assist you conquer the check and launch your profession.The journey to changing into a proficient barber is paved with useful sources. Efficient preparation hinges on good use of those instruments.
These sources, from respected web sites to observe questions, are designed to spice up your data and increase your confidence.
Respected Web sites and On-line Sources
Quite a few web sites present invaluable sources for barbering college students and professionals. These platforms supply detailed data, observe quizzes, and even simulated check environments. Discovering dependable sources is essential for a profitable research plan.
- Skilled barbering associations usually keep web sites with useful sources. These embody data on state-specific rules, skilled improvement alternatives, and probably observe checks.
- Search on-line for “barbering observe checks” or comparable phrases. Outcomes might embody websites that supply free or paid entry to observe checks designed to imitate precise state board exams. These are essential for understanding the check format and figuring out areas for enchancment.
- Search for instructional platforms devoted to barbering. They might supply programs, observe supplies, and priceless details about totally different methods and instruments.
Books and Different Printed Supplies
Conventional studying supplies, like books, can complement on-line sources. They usually present in-depth data on particular matters and may function a useful reference information.
- Barbering textbooks present complete protection of varied elements of the occupation, together with reducing methods, hair design, and security procedures.
- Search for books on hair styling and particular methods that align along with your state board’s necessities.
- Some textbooks embody observe questions or quizzes, that are helpful for self-assessment.
On-line Apply Exams and Research Supplies
Apply checks are very important for gauging your readiness for the precise examination. They mean you can establish areas the place you want additional research.
- Many on-line platforms supply observe checks tailor-made to particular state board necessities. These checks usually mimic the format and problem stage of the particular examination.
- Search for observe checks that mean you can observe your progress and pinpoint areas needing enchancment. Understanding your strengths and weaknesses is vital to focusing your research.
- Make the most of pattern questions and solutions. Understanding why a solution is appropriate or incorrect may help solidify your data.
Apply Take a look at Questions
Entry to numerous observe check questions is essential for complete preparation. The extra observe questions you deal with, the extra comfy you may turn out to be with the examination format and content material.
- Search for observe checks with quite a lot of query sorts, together with multiple-choice, true/false, and probably scenario-based questions.
- Search observe checks that cowl the breadth of matters examined on the state board examination.
- Evaluation your solutions and analyze your errors. That is important for figuring out and addressing any data gaps.
Apps and Software program for Apply
A number of apps and software program applications can help in your preparation journey. They provide handy and interesting methods to observe and overview.
- Search for apps particularly designed for barbering training and observe. These might embody interactive classes, observe quizzes, and even video tutorials on totally different methods.
- Cellular apps are particularly helpful for on-the-go research classes.
- Think about using software program applications that simulate a salon surroundings. This may help with growing your expertise in a sensible setting.
Useful resource Desk
Useful resource | Description | Availability |
---|---|---|
Skilled Barbering Associations | Web sites with sources on rules, improvement, and probably observe checks. | On-line |
Barbering Textbooks | Complete guides on reducing, design, and security. | Bookstores, On-line Retailers |
On-line Apply Exams | Simulate state board exams and observe progress. | On-line Platforms |
Apply Take a look at Questions | Number of query sorts overlaying broad matters. | On-line, Books |
Barbering Apps/Software program | Interactive classes, quizzes, and simulated salon environments. | App Shops, Software program Retailers |
Superior Strategies for Mastering Troublesome Ideas: State Board Barber Apply Take a look at
Conquering difficult ideas in barbering observe checks is not about memorizing each element; it is about growing a strategic strategy. This part delves into superior methods, equipping you with the instruments to deal with complicated questions and increase your confidence. Mastering these methods will translate right into a simpler research course of and a greater understanding of the fabric.Efficient problem-solving entails extra than simply recalling details.
It necessitates a deeper understanding of the underlying ideas and the power to use them creatively. Consider every query as a puzzle – by analyzing the parts, figuring out relationships, and dealing by way of doable options, you may be properly in your solution to mastering complicated ideas.
Methods for Tackling Difficult Questions
An important facet of tackling robust questions is recognizing patterns and relationships throughout the materials. Search for clues, connections, and underlying ideas that may enable you formulate your reply. This entails cautious studying and comprehension, in addition to the power to discern related data from irrelevant particulars. Do not be afraid to attract diagrams, make notes, or create visible representations to assist in your understanding.
Strategies for Downside-Fixing and Important Pondering
Mastering problem-solving in barbering entails growing a scientific strategy. This entails figuring out the core difficulty, breaking down the issue into smaller, extra manageable elements, after which systematically exploring doable options. Important considering, on this context, means evaluating the validity of knowledge, contemplating various views, and forming reasoned judgments. For instance, when analyzing a posh haircut, think about the shopper’s hair kind, desired type, and the general aesthetic.
Approaches for Understanding Advanced Subjects in Barbering
A standard strategy to understanding complicated matters is to interrupt them down into smaller, extra manageable elements. This will contain dissecting the steps in a selected method, finding out the intricacies of a particular haircut, or inspecting the nuances of various hair sorts. Use analogies or relatable examples to bridge the hole between summary ideas and real-world situations. For instance, think about a posh haircut as a roadmap – every step is a flip, and the vacation spot is the specified type.
Methods for Efficient Time Administration Throughout the Take a look at
Time administration is crucial for fulfillment in any check. Develop a technique to allocate your time successfully throughout your complete check. Begin by rigorously reviewing your complete check, estimating the time wanted for every query, after which prioritizing questions primarily based in your strengths and weaknesses. Apply timed observe checks to refine your strategy. Allocate a set time for every part, and if a query is proving too difficult, transfer on and return to it later.
Desk Summarizing Strategies for Tackling Difficult Questions
Method | Description | Instance |
---|---|---|
Figuring out Patterns | Recognizing recurring themes or relationships throughout the materials. | Noticing a sample in how totally different hair sorts react to sure styling merchandise. |
Visible Illustration | Utilizing diagrams, charts, or different visible aids for example complicated ideas. | Drawing a diagram to indicate the correct layering method for a haircut. |
Breaking Down Issues | Dividing complicated issues into smaller, extra manageable elements. | Analyzing every step of a haircut method individually to raised perceive the method. |
Contemplating Alternate options | Evaluating a number of views and options to an issue. | Contemplating other ways to type a shopper’s hair primarily based on their preferences. |
Prioritizing Questions | Specializing in simpler questions first to construct confidence and save time. | Finishing simpler questions in a bit to permit extra time for the more durable ones. |