CPS Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CPS facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which layer of the skin contains blood vessels and nerve endings that provide sensation and nourishment? → Dermis
2. Which factor most directly influences how long a semi-permanent pet-safe dye retains its vibrancy? → Frequency of bathing and shampoo pH
3. What is the primary purpose of obtaining a signed service agreement from a new client? → To outline expectations, policies, and acknowledge consent for services
4. A grooming salon owner is preparing for tax season. Which expense category would grooming scissors, clippers, and shampoo fall under? → Cost of goods sold or supplies expense
5. When a senior dog with arthritis is placed on the grooming table, the most important handling consideration is: → Avoiding extension or manipulation of joints beyond their comfortable range of motion
6. What is the BEST practice when using a high-velocity force dryer on a pet? → Keep the nozzle moving continuously and maintain a safe distance from the skin
7. What distinguishes primary (guard) hairs from secondary (undercoat) hairs in a double-coated dog? → Primary hairs are coarser, longer, and emerge from individual follicles
8. A groomer is finishing a West Highland White Terrier. What scissoring technique creates the characteristic round head shape? → Circular scissoring around the skull with curved shears
9. The arrector pili muscle is responsible for which phenomenon in dogs? → Raising the hackles along the spine
10. What is the purpose of a 'grooming release form' signed by the pet owner? → To document the owner's awareness of risks and consent to grooming services
11. A dog that repeatedly licks its lips, yawns, and turns its head away during grooming is most likely displaying: → Calming signals indicating stress or discomfort
12. For competition creative grooming, which color contrast principle creates the most striking visual impact on a judge? → Simultaneous contrast using complementary hues
13. Which finishing product is most appropriate for adding definition to a Poodle's pompon without increasing coat volume? → Light-hold finishing spray misted after drying
14. What is the primary purpose of a zoning permit for a home-based pet grooming business? → To ensure the business use is allowed in a residential zone
15. What is the primary purpose of a grooming salon's cancellation policy? → To protect the business from lost revenue due to last-minute cancellations
16. What is the primary reason grooming scissors and shears should be kept dry and stored properly after disinfection? → To maintain sharpness and prevent rust, which can harbor bacteria in pitting corrosion
17. What is evidence-based practice in CPS Anatomy of Skin & Hair? → Integrating research evidence with expertise and client needs
18. What is evidence-based practice in CPS Advanced Styling Techniques? → Integrating research evidence with expertise and client needs
19. Which disinfectant concentration of bleach solution is commonly recommended for sanitizing grooming surfaces between clients? → 1:10 bleach to water ratio
20. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which classification of grooming salon worker is entitled to overtime pay? → Non-exempt hourly employees who work more than 40 hours per week
21. How can a pet stylist differentiate their business from competitors? → By offering personalized services and excellent customer care
22. What is 'color bleeding' in the context of applying multiple pet-safe dye colors? → Adjacent colors mixing where they meet, creating unintended hues
23. When using electric clippers near a dog's face, what is the primary safety concern a groomer must manage? → Heat buildup causing skin burns
24. When performing a hand-stripping technique on a Wire Fox Terrier, what is the primary purpose? → To preserve correct harsh coat texture
25. A dog that freezes completely and becomes rigid while being handled during grooming is most likely: → Shutting down due to extreme fear, which can precede a sudden bite
26. A grooming salon owner reviews monthly expenses and finds supply costs rise proportionally with the number of grooms performed. These are: → Variable costs
27. How should a groomer respond if a client asks them to use a product the groomer knows could harm the pet? → Decline and clearly explain why the product poses a risk to the pet
28. A Cocker Spaniel's ears should be trimmed according to breed standard to achieve what look? → Long, silky feathering that blends smoothly with the body coat
29. What is the BEST way to store grooming scissors to preserve their cutting edge? → In individual sheaths or a fabric scissor roll
30. Which of the following best describes 'gross profit' for a grooming salon? → Revenue minus only the direct costs of delivering grooming services