Which toolpath should I use? The master decision guide for choosing the right strategy

Decide by the RESULT you want

"Cut this shape out": Profile (outside the line, with tabs and a slight overcut). To slot along a line, use Profile ON the line.

"Remove this area to a flat depth": Pocket (two tools for big areas plus tight corners).

"Carve lettering or sharp-cornered decorative detail": V-Carve. Variable width with a pointed bit is the way to get sharp inside corners. For big open areas in the design, add Flat Depth plus a clearance tool.

"Letters that stick UP": Pocket the background plus the V-carve walls trick (see the raised-letter entry).

"Machine a 3D model": 3D Roughing, then 3D Finishing (set the boundary, see that entry), then a Profile cutout.

"Constant-width decorative grooves" (flourishes, borders): Profile ON with a V-bit or round-nose at a set depth (constant width), or Fluting for tapered ends.

"Photo on wood": Photo V-Carve (reflected-light engraving). A lithophane is a 3D model made from an image (Aspire's Create Component from Bitmap), see that entry.

"Background texture": Texture toolpath (see the preset entries, which are starting points to test on scrap). "Faceted prism look on letters": Prism Carving. "Molding profile along a curve": Moulding toolpath.

"Holes": Drilling (peck for deep). "Hang slot": Keyhole gadget or toolpath.

"Two pieces that fit together": VCarve Inlay (angled-wall inlay, one form that makes the pocket and plug) or Profile pairs with offsets (straight inlay or joinery; inside corners need dogbones for square parts).

The classic combos (most real projects are stacks)

• Standard sign: surface skim, then V-Carve text, then Profile cutout
• Dimensional sign: Pocket background, V-carve walls, Texture field, then Profile
• 3D plaque: 3D Rough, 3D Finish, V-Carve lettering on flats, then Profile
• Parts batch: Pockets and drilling first, Profiles LAST (see the small-parts entry)

Rules that prevent regret

1. Order is list order: interior operations before cutouts, always.
2. One toolpath per purpose beats one clever toolpath doing two jobs.
3. When two strategies both work, pick the one whose FAILURE is cheaper (V-carve too deep versus pocket too big).