I Tried Applying the e.l.f. Cosmetics Big Mood Mascara 3 Different Ways — Here's What Came Out on Top

This is actually the technique that e.l.f. Cosmetics recommends when using the Big Mood Mascara ($7). The "how-to-use" directions note to start at the root of the lashes and move the wand up to the tips of the lashes in a zig-zag motion. In my opinion, this is basically the same as the wiggle technique, where you gently wiggle the mascara wand through your eyelashes from root to tip.

I've found that the zig-zag technique helps to separate my tiny eyelashes and evenly coat them with pigment, therefore creating really impressive volume and preventing clumps. I also think it helps create more of a curled and fanned-out effect.