When conducting a dissection a always cut towards yourself for better control b apply as much force as necessary to cut through the specimen c only wear goggles if the specimen is wet d use scissors instead of a scalpel whenever possible?

For letter a, it is not advised to cut towards yourself. Although you might not harm the people surrounding you, you can't afford to risk yourself. For letter b, do not apply so much force. Just apply the minimal force, just strong enough to cut through. For letter c, you have to wear the goggles all the time for safety purposes. For letter d, I think this is the answer. When you only want to cut the skin, it would be better to use scissors.