Lately (I've only been shaving with a straight razor for 9 weeks or so) I've started using a scything motion. I find it very effective. Before, I was essentially using a 'straight down' stroke on most areas. I found the hair just above my jawline difficult to remove completely; needing a ATG to do so completely. I don't really like to do more than one pass; I'd rather get it all done in one pass, if possible. After 're-mapping' my face, I decided a scything stroke on that area especially would in effect bring to bear more of an XTG pass; though it's at this stage a bit difficult to make sure I stop at the right spot to stop cutting into my goatee. However, I'd just like to 'report' that it's been very effective these last few days; it's resulted in a much closer shave in that area without the need to use a ATG pass or a second pass at all. I HAVE also used another pre-shave treatment (Oscar shave oil) so I'm not ENTIRELY sure it's all down to the stroke; but i think it is...Just wanted to share that...