With the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, graduation day marks a significant milestone in a student’s life. As you prepare to step onto the stage to receive your diploma, you want to present yourself with confidence and poise. One crucial element of your graduation attire is the cap, an academic symbol that signifies your educational achievement. Putting on the cap correctly is essential to maintain a professional and dignified appearance. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand the proper way to wear your graduation cap, ensuring you look polished and ready to embark on the next chapter of your life.
Before placing the cap on your head, it is important to make sure that it is facing the correct way. The tassel should be draped over the left side of the cap, falling approximately 6-8 inches above the edge. Position the cap on your head so that the tassel rests over your left temple. The front edge of the cap should align just above your eyebrows, maintaining a level and horizontal position. Use the elastic band or velcro attached to the cap to secure it snugly around your head. Ensure that the cap fits comfortably, not too loose or too tight, to prevent it from slipping off during the ceremony.
Once the cap is securely in place, you can adjust the tassel to achieve the desired look. Traditionally, the tassel is worn on the left side of the cap before receiving your diploma. After the conferral of your degree, you can move the tassel to the right side to symbolize your transition from student to graduate. If your tassels do not come pre-attached, you can slide them onto the cap’s button and secure them with a small safety pin. Always handle the tassel with care to avoid any damage or fraying.
Adjust the Cap Properly
Congratulations on your upcoming graduation! One of the most important parts of the graduation ceremony is the donning of the cap, which signifies your hard work and dedication. Here’s a detailed guide to help you put on your graduation cap properly:
Size Adjustment
Most graduation caps come with an adjustable band. To ensure a snug fit, follow these steps:
- Locate the hook-and-loop closure at the back of the cap.
- Unfasten the closure and expand the band until it fits comfortably around your head.
- Once it feels secure, fasten the closure to keep it in place.
Your cap should fit snugly without being too tight or too loose. It should rest slightly above your eyebrows, allowing for proper airflow.
Shape the Mortarboard
A traditional graduation cap, also known as a mortarboard, has a flat top and a tassel that hangs from the center. To shape the mortarboard:
- Hold the cap by the tassel and gently lift it up to form a cone shape.
- Press the top of the cap with your other hand to flatten it into a square or rectangular shape.
- Adjust the tassel so that it hangs evenly from the center of the cap.
Position the Cap
Now that your cap is properly shaped, you’re ready to position it on your head. Here’s how:
- Place the cap on your head, with the front edge slightly above your eyebrows.
- Ensure that the mortarboard is centered on your head and the tassel hangs directly behind.
- If necessary, make minor adjustments to the band or shape of the cap to ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
Remember, the graduation cap is a symbol of your academic achievement and should be worn with pride. By following these steps, you can ensure that it fits properly and looks its best on your special day.
Locate the Button
The button on the top of the graduation cap is known as the “mortarboard.” It is typically either black or gold and has a tassel attached to it. The mortarboard serves two purposes: it helps to keep the cap securely on your head and it provides a way to show your school colors or your academic achievements.
Materials:
| Black | Gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Traditional | Honorary |
| Color | Black | Gold |
| Tassel | Traditional | Gold |
Most graduation caps come with either a black or gold mortarboard. The black mortarboard is the traditional choice for undergraduate students, while the gold mortarboard is typically used for graduate students or individuals receiving an honorary degree.
Align the Button with the Knob
The final step in putting on a graduation cap is aligning the button with the knob. This may seem like a simple task, but it is important to do it correctly to ensure that the cap fits snugly and won’t fall off during the ceremony.
Before you start, make sure that the button is facing upwards. If it is not, simply flip the cap over and try again. Now place the button directly in front of the knob. The button should be centered over the knob so that there is equal space on either side.
Once the button is in place, use your thumb to gently press down on it while simultaneously gripping the knob with your other hand. The button should snap into place, and the cap should now be secure on your head.
For a more detailed guide on aligning the button with the knob, follow these steps:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Place the button directly in front of the knob, making sure that it is centered. |
| 2 | Gently press down on the button with your thumb while simultaneously gripping the knob with your other hand. |
| 3 | The button should snap into place, and the cap should now be secure on your head. |
Lift the Panel
After positioning the mortarboard on your head, you will notice that there is a small panel on the top of the cap. This panel is known as the “button,” and it is typically made of cardboard or plastic. To properly lift the panel, follow these steps:
1. Locate the Panel
Ensure you have the mortarboard placed correctly on your head, and locate the button or panel on the top of the cap.
2. Use Your Fingers
Gently insert your fingers or thumbs into the small slits or openings on the edge of the panel. Avoid using excessive force, as you may damage the cap.
3. Lift the Panel
With your fingers or thumbs in place, carefully lift the panel upwards. The panel should come off easily, revealing the tassel.
4. Tips for Lifting the Panel
Use a Graduating Cap Tool: If you have access to a graduating cap tool, this specialized tool can assist you in lifting the panel effortlessly. These tools have a hook or lever that makes the process much easier.
Hold the Cap Steady: Before lifting the panel, ensure that you are holding the cap steady and balanced on your head. This will prevent the cap from slipping or falling off.
Practice Beforehand: To avoid any mishaps during the ceremony, practice lifting the panel several times before the actual event. This will give you confidence and ensure a smooth presentation.
Insert the Cap
1. Locate the button or snap on the inside of the cap.
2. Align the button or snap with the corresponding hole or notch on the top of your head.
3. Press the button or snap firmly into place.
4. Smooth out any wrinkles or creases in the cap by gently pulling on the edges.
5. Adjust the Fit
Fine-tune the fit of the cap by adjusting the elastic band or cord around the head:
| If the cap is too loose: | If the cap is too tight: |
|---|---|
| Tighten the elastic band or cord by pulling on the ends. | Loosen the elastic band or cord by pulling gently on the edges of the cap. |
Secure the elastic band or cord by tying it in a knot or securing it with a hook-and-loop fastener.
Secure the Panel
The most important step in putting on a graduation cap is to secure the panel. This is the square or rectangular piece of cardboard that provides the shape and support for the cap. Without the panel, the cap would simply be a floppy piece of fabric.
There are several ways to secure the panel. The most common method is to use staples. Simply align the panel with the inside edge of the cap and staple it in place. Make sure to use enough staples to hold the panel securely.
Another option is to use tape. This is a good method if you don’t want to damage the cap with staples. Simply apply a strip of tape to the inside edge of the cap and press the panel into place. Make sure to use a strong tape that will hold the panel securely.
Finally, you can also use glue to secure the panel. This is a good option if you want a permanent bond. Simply apply a thin layer of glue to the inside edge of the cap and press the panel into place. Make sure to use a glue that is appropriate for the material of the cap.
Once the panel is securely in place, you can move on to the next step.
Adjust the Fit
Once the mortarboard is on your head, you’ll want to make sure it’s a comfortable fit. Here are some tips:
1. Adjust the headband: The headband should be snug but not too tight. It should rest comfortably on your forehead, about an inch above your eyebrows. If the headband is too loose, the cap will slide around or fall off. If it’s too tight, it will give you a headache.
2. Tighten or loosen the tassel: The tassel should hang down the back of your cap, just above your shoulder blades. If the tassel is too long, it will get in your way. If it’s too short, it will look like you’re wearing a yarmulke.
3. Center the cap: The mortarboard should be centered on your head, with the tassel hanging straight down the back. If the cap is tilted, it will look odd and unprofessional.
4. Flatten the top of the cap: The mortarboard should be flat on top. If the top is folded or dented, it will ruin the look of the cap.
5. Fold the corners: The corners of the mortarboard should be folded up. This gives the cap a crisp, professional look.
6. Trim the excess fabric: If the mortarboard is too long, you can trim the excess fabric. Be careful not to cut too much, or you’ll ruin the cap.
7. Use bobby pins to secure the cap: If you’re worried about the cap falling off, you can use bobby pins to secure it to your hair. Insert the bobby pins into the headband, just above your ears.
Position the Tassel
The tassel is the most important part of the graduation cap, as it symbolizes the completion of your studies. It should be positioned on the left side of the cap, about an inch and a half from the edge. The tassel should hang down over the edge of the cap, but it should not touch the ground. If the tassel is too long, you can trim it to the desired length.
Traditionally, the tassel is worn on the left side of the cap for men and on the right side for women. However, there is no hard and fast rule about this, and you can wear the tassel on whichever side you prefer.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to position the tassel:
- Place the cap on your head so that the brim is parallel to the ground.
- Find the center of the cap and make a small mark with a pencil or pen.
- Measure 1.5 inches from the center of the cap and make another mark.
- Tie the tassel onto the second mark, using a simple knot or a ribbon.
- Adjust the tassel so that it hangs down over the edge of the cap, but does not touch the ground.
If you are having trouble positioning the tassel, you can ask a friend or family member to help you.
Once the tassel is in place, you are ready to graduate!
Remove the Cap
9. Check for hair and adjust as needed
Before placing the cap on your head, check for any loose strands of hair that may stick out or be visible beneath the cap. Use a small brush or comb to gently tuck any stray hairs back into place. You can also use bobby pins or hairspray to secure any unruly strands. In case of longer or thicker hair, parting the hair in the middle or on the side can facilitate smoother placement of the cap.
| Tips for Hair Management |
|---|
| Brush or comb hair before cap placement |
| Use bobby pins or hairspray for additional security |
| Part hair in the middle or on the side for longer or thicker hair |
How To Put A Graduation Cap On
Placing a graduation cap on properly is an important part of the graduation ceremony. Here are the steps on how to do it:
- Hold the cap by the tassel.
- Position the cap on your head so that the front edge is just above your eyebrows and the back edge is resting on the nape of your neck.
- Pull the tassel over the top of the cap and let it hang down on the left side.
- Adjust the cap so that it is centered on your head and feels secure.
- If necessary, use bobby pins to keep the cap in place.
People Also Ask About How To Put A Graduation Cap On
How do you put on a graduation cap with long hair?
To put on a graduation cap with long hair, follow these steps:
- Put your hair up in a ponytail or bun.
- Place the cap on your head as instructed above.
- Pull the tassel over the top of the cap and let it hang down on the left side.
- Adjust the cap so that it is centered on your head and feels secure.
- If necessary, use bobby pins to keep the cap in place.
How do you keep a graduation cap from falling off?
There are a few ways to keep a graduation cap from falling off:
- Use bobby pins to secure the cap to your hair.
- Wear a wig cap or bandana under the cap to help keep it in place.
- Adjust the cap so that it is snug but not too tight.
- If you are concerned about the cap falling off, you can practice wearing it at home before the ceremony.
