Polishing technics?

Hi I've been detailing for quite sometime now, and now I want to go in the direction of paint correction. What steps do pros take to get that glass finish? I've herd that after each stage you should wipe the vehicle down with 50/50 of alcohol and water. Is that correct? Are there other steps to take to get superb results?
 
A test spot is mandatory on not just correction, but also with polishing if you want to squeeze out every last bit of gloss. 


 


You can also use a paint safe degreaser, Dawn dish detergent or medium solvent to strip the surface of oils/fillers to reveal the true finish. 
 
There are so many variables to this and no absolutely right or wrong answer.  No answer you can read here will substitute for hands on experience.  Some pads/compound/polish/paint combos can react differently and require a slightly different technique; from speed, pressure, working time, etc.  This is really where detailing crosses over from "science" to "art".  


 


In general, make sure to keep your pad flat (for DA), don't use too much product, work small sections, slow arm speed, work long enough but not too long, wipe off, inspect, adjust and repeat until desired results are achieved.  It takes a long time but experiment with different techniques without switching pad or compound/polish choice.  While most detailers have a wide variety of options a good detailer can maximize just one combo; one technique will maximize cut while another will improve the finish.  Some polishes are more versatile than others.  
 
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