When cutting plywood with a circular saw, where should the good side face?

When cutting plywood with a circular saw, the good side should face down. This arrangement is important because the circular saw’s blade rotates in a direction that will cause the top surface of the plywood to splinter as it cuts. By placing the good side down, you minimize the risk of damaging the visible face of the plywood, ensuring that any splintering occurs on the underside, which will typically be less noticeable once the plywood is installed.

In construction and woodworking, preserving the aesthetic quality of materials is essential. When the good side is facing down, the cut edge will still appear cleaner and more professional, which is particularly important for visible or finished surfaces.