Modeling & Acting Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. What does 'walking the board' refer to in runway modeling training? → Practicing the catwalk on a raised platform
2. What does SAG-AFTRA stand for in the entertainment industry? → Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists
3. Which document legally establishes the financial terms, usage rights, and obligations in a professional modeling contract? → The booking contract or model release
4. What does a modeling agent typically earn as commission from a model's bookings? → 15-20%
5. How did the phrase "supermodel" first appear in slang? → Popular culture of the 80's and 90's
6. What is a 'screen test' in the film industry? → A filmed audition to evaluate how an actor looks and performs on camera
7. What is a 'callback' in the audition process? → A second or subsequent audition invitation indicating serious interest from casting
8. What is a 'fashion stylist' responsible for in a runway show? → Selecting and coordinating clothing, accessories, and overall looks for the show
9. What is a 'cold reading' in an acting audition? → Performing sides or script you receive with little or no preparation time
10. Which supermodel appeared on more Vogue covers than any other model in history as of the early 2000s? → Lauren Hutton
11. A model's 'book' or portfolio should primarily contain: → Tear sheets, test shots, and professional editorial images
12. What is an 'Equity principal audition' (EPA)? → A formal audition for speaking roles open to all Equity members
13. In film and TV, what does 'hitting your mark' mean? → Standing on a taped spot on the floor for correct camera framing
14. What does 'under five' or 'U/5' mean in television casting? → A speaking role with fewer than five lines of dialogue
15. What type of hair extensions are attached using heated keratin adhesive bonded to the natural hair strand? → Keratin bond (fusion) extensions
16. What does it mean when a fashion show is described as 'off-schedule'? → It is held outside the official fashion week calendar
17. What year did the 'supermodel era' generally peak, when models like Cindy Crawford and Naomi Campbell achieved celebrity-level fame? → Early-to-mid 1990s
18. What percentage commission do talent agencies typically charge models and actors in the US? → 10–20%
19. What is 'day rate' in commercial modeling? → The standard daily fee a model charges for a full day of shooting
20. What is 'overcall' in the context of fashion show casting? → Inviting more models to a casting than the number of slots available
21. What is 'color correction' in professional hair styling? → Neutralizing unwanted tones using opposing colors on the color wheel
22. What does 'motivational recall' or 'affective memory' primarily involve? → Drawing on personal emotional memories to produce genuine feelings in a role
23. Define a groundplan. → Arrangement of set pieces on a stage
24. What is an 'improv' performance style most useful for in acting training? → Developing spontaneity, listening skills, and on-the-spot creativity
25. What group was formally acknowledged and recognized by the fashion industry as supermodels throughout the 1990s? → The Big Six
26. For a runway show, which type of hairstyle is most practical to maintain consistency across multiple models and outfit changes? → Clean, polished styles that are quick to reproduce
27. Who prided herself on being just a good "clothes hanger"? → Lisa Fonssagrives
28. What is a 'go-see' in the modeling industry? → A meeting where models visit clients or casting directors to be considered for jobs
29. What does 'editorial modeling' primarily refer to? → High-fashion storytelling imagery published in magazines
30. What is the best way to get started in the modeling industry? → Sign up with a modeling agency