of competitions in both single and pair competitions has been identical since the elimination of compulsory figures in 1990.

Skaters' and teams' entire performance is evaluated by three program components: composition, presentation, and skating skills. Both pair skating partners must demonstrate the criteria equally. Unity, connections between and within elements, choreography reflecting the skaters' musical phrase and form, multidimensional movements and use of space, and pattern and ice coverage are considered when judges evaluate skaters'