Hello richard_1988. Let's break down how to select the perfect avocado without damaging it.
First, examine the color of the skin. Hass avocados generally transition from bright green to a dark, almost purplish-black when ripe. If it is bright green and shiny, it is usually underripe and hard.
Next, perform a gentle tactile test. Cup the avocado in your palm and apply light, gentle pressure with your fingers—do not use your fingertips, as this bruises the fruit. If it yields slightly to firm, gentle pressure, it is ready to eat. If it feels rock hard, it needs a few days. If it feels mushy or soft, it is overripe or rotten inside.
Finally, check under the stem cap (the small nub at the top). Flick it off gently with your thumb. If it comes away easily and you see green underneath, the avocado is ripe and good to go. If it is brown underneath, the fruit is overripe or bruised. If the stem won't budge at all, it is too unripe.