220-1201 Practice Question: A user brings in a smartphone with a cracked…

Answer analysis

Option-by-option breakdown

For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.

• ✗

  Use a spudger to pry the screen off starting from the bottom.

  Why it's wrong here

  Attempting to pry the screen off with a spudger without first applying heat is incorrect because modern smartphone screens are secured with strong, heat-activated adhesive. Forcing the screen while the adhesive is cold and rigid significantly increases the risk of cracking the glass further, damaging the underlying display components, or bending the device's frame. Proper technique requires softening the adhesive to allow for gentle separation.

• ✓

  Apply heat to the edges of the screen to soften the adhesive.

  Why this is correct

  Applying heat to the edges of the screen is the correct initial step because it effectively softens the specialized adhesive used to secure the display assembly to the device's frame. This thermal treatment allows the screen to be carefully lifted with minimal force, significantly reducing the likelihood of causing additional damage to the already cracked glass, the delicate display ribbon cables, or the internal components. It prepares the device for safe and controlled screen removal.

• ✗

  Remove the battery using a plastic pry tool.

  Why it's wrong here

  Removing the battery using a plastic pry tool is not the immediate next step for screen replacement, as the battery is typically located beneath the screen assembly and often requires the screen to be detached first for proper access. While disconnecting the battery is a critical safety measure during internal repairs to prevent short circuits, attempting to remove it prematurely without first addressing the screen's adhesive bond is out of sequence and impractical. This action would likely cause further damage or make screen removal more difficult.

• ✗

  Insert a guitar pick under the screen to separate it from the frame.

  Why it's wrong here

  Inserting a guitar pick or similar thin tool under the screen without prior heat application is an incorrect approach that can exacerbate the existing damage. The strong, unyielding adhesive will resist the pick, concentrating force on a small area of the glass, which can easily cause the cracked screen to shatter further or splinter into dangerous fragments. Softening the adhesive is crucial to create a safe gap for insertion and prevent additional structural compromise to the display.

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