The trick is finding a knife that feels intuitive in your hand and stays sharp over time. You don’t need a dozen different knives—just one reliable all-purpose knife can cover most tasks. For example, kitchen knives are designed with ergonomics and durability in mind, so even long prep sessions feel easier. Balance, weight, and handle grip all matter more than flashy designs. Pairing a good knife with a sturdy cutting board and learning a few basic techniques like proper grip and slicing angles will cut your prep time dramatically. Once you get a knife that clicks with your style, it’s almost like it’s doing half the work for you.