How long have you been working at Starbucks? Some times it takes a while to learn the flow of what needs to be done and when. There’s also always *something* that can be cleaned, even if your other tasks are done. Like clean the garbage cans, floor drains, the cup caddy, the ceiling ….

On the other hand, if you do need practice making drinks and you’re in a good spot with your close, I think it’s perfectly reasonable to get some practice in when it’s not busy. Take out the recipe cards and pick one to learn. Your shift shouldn’t have a problem with that.

if there’s nothing to do, then feel free to practice, but if things need to be cleaned then i’d prioritize that

Ask your shift if there’s anything that needs to be done and if they don’t know or everything is finished, ask if you can practice drinks! When I was a green bean I constantly asked what I should be doing or what needs to be done and I loved when my baristas would ask me that as well when I promoted. Plus it will look good if you are constantly looking for work, they will definitely put in a good word about you!