Which method is used to shorten hair without losing the shape?

Blending is an essential technique used in barbering to shorten hair while maintaining its overall shape and style. This method involves carefully cutting hair at varying lengths, which allows for a smoother transition between different lengths and helps maintain the desired contour of the hairstyle. By seamlessly integrating shorter sections of hair into longer areas, blending provides a more natural look that avoids harsh lines or drastic changes in length.

Clipping, on the other hand, typically refers to using clippers to cut hair to a uniform length, which may not preserve the shape as effectively as blending can. Texturizing focuses on removing bulk or altering the hair's texture rather than merely shortening it, which can leave the overall shape more compromised. Shaving is a technique that removes hair down to the skin and is usually used for a completely different effect, often resulting in a starker look rather than a blended appearance. Thus, blending is the method that best achieves the goal of shortening hair without losing its shape.