Speedy How To: At Home Manicure

I'm thinking of doing a series of these posts called "Speedy How To", which will consist me giving my best step by step approach to basic things that most of us do. Starting with something I need to do desperately, an at home manicure.

1. Obviously remove all traces of polish. 
2. Coat your fingernails and cuticles in your favorite oil (I use coconut)
3. Let it soak for at least a couple of minutes to soften the nail and cuticles. 
4. Wash off oil and clean up cuticles. 
5. Trim and file for shape
6. Add a base coat for a longer wear time
7. Add 1-2 coats of your desired nail lacquer 
8. Finish with a top coat or fast dry depending on how fast or not fast you are working, but if you can always use a top coat as this will protect and seal the color better than the fast dry.