It can be so frustrating to go to the nail salon and try to describe exactly the kind of nail shape you’re looking for if you don’t have the right terminology. So, next time you’re looking to change up your squoval to an almond, or your round to a coffin, open up this handy guide to show your nail tech.

Square

The tips are filed straight across; nails can be any length.

Flared

The tips are filed into a square shape that’s wider at the end than it is at the base; nails can be any length.

Round

The tips are filed into a curve; nails are typically shorter than with the oval shape.

Oval

The tips are filed into a curve that’s slightly sharper than the round shape; nails are typically longer.

Squoval

The tips are filed in between the square and round/oval shapes; nails can be any length.

Almond

The tips are filed into a sharper point than the oval shape; nails are typically longer.

Stiletto

The tips are filed into a very sharp point; nails are typically very long.

Coffin

The tips are filed into points and squared off; nails are typically very long.