Every day on snow is different due to the variables that affect snow conditions and an individual’s performance. The national standards set common guidelines but there are many ways to assess these areas. The only objective test would be to require a written exam and no on-snow assessment. This format would not suit our profession and need to assess an instructor in action on snow. Due to the variables in our sport, we have to accept that individual experiences, like snow conditions, vary from day to day and from place to place. This does not mean that because of some variability in our sport, our exams are inconsistent or unfair.