Which of the following descriptions identifies the correct 3-stroke application of polish?

• A. Middle, side, side
• B. Sides only
• C. Side, middle, side
• D. Side, side, middle

Answer: (A)

Starting with the center stroke anchors the polish and helps you control the evenness of coverage before you move to the edges. Begin with a smooth stroke down the middle of the nail, from the base near the cuticle to the tip, which sets the baseline width and reduces the chance of brush marks along the center.

Then brush along one side from the cuticle toward the tip, using a light touch to avoid flooding the edge. Finally, repeat on the opposite side to finish the full width in even layers. This order—center first, then the sides—helps you achieve a neat, balanced edge and reduces streaks because the central area is established before the sides are filled in. Painting the sides first can leave the center misaligned or create uneven edges as you try to correct it later.