Which of the following tools is essential for cutting hair?

The essential tool for cutting hair is scissors, as they are specifically designed to create clean, precise cuts. Scissors allow for the manipulation of hair at various angles, which is crucial for creating different styles and lengths. They can be used for a variety of cutting techniques, including layering and texturizing, which adds depth and dimension to a haircut.

While combs and brushes are important tools in the hairstyling process, they serve different functions. Combs are used to detangle hair and help section it for cutting, while brushes are typically used for styling and smoothing hair, rather than cutting it. Clippers are also important tools in hair cutting, particularly for shorter styles and fades, but scissors remain the primary tool for most cutting techniques and are versatile enough to be used on various hair types and styles. Thus, in the context of cutting hair, scissors are the indispensable tool.