How a figure skating event works

1. Singles and pairs skate a short program and then free skating; ice dance couples skate a rhythm dance and then a free dance.
2. Each element, such as a jump or a spin, has a set base value. Judges add or take away for how well it was done, the grade of execution, from -5 to +5.
3. Judges also mark the whole performance on three program components: composition, presentation and skating skills. Falls and other breaches are deducted.
4. Each program's score is the elements plus the components, minus deductions. The two program scores are added, and the highest total wins.

How long

A short program lasts 2 minutes 40 seconds and senior free skating 4 minutes, with 10 seconds allowed either way.