@mrsbeadles232 Your gonna file them in a straight motion downward and slightly inward towards your finger tip so there isnt too much of the strip filed off at the edge. I have had this problem also. Just keep the file as straight as possible. Also, if you buff your nail surface ever so slightly before applying them, they stick better and will last longer. :^)
@Cupcake4you I tried but the uploader isnt working. So I made a duplicate listing with a photo I took with a username proof since I have more than one available. So sorry.Thanks for looking! :^)
I would say you have very little wiggle room there. I would place them from the cuticle then push down the middle and from the middle down the sides. You can also trim them before you place them (before you remove the backing) which I find easier just leave a little on the free edge, its easy to file that when your done.