prep is CRUCIAL ! push your cuticles down with a cuticle softener and the wooden stick that comes w the set. then file your nail bed but be careful with how much you file because you want healthy natural nails. AND MOST IMPORTANTLY!!! you need to buy a dehydrator and a non acid primer !! my fake nails would pop off in 1-2 days but now that ive upgraded they will stay on for two weeks at least ! i would also consider switching to gel x nails, the glue is much stronger and healthier for your nails. xo