What are the judging criteria in cutting competition and how are runs scored?

Cutting is scored on a 0 to 80 point scale with 70 as the base score for an average run, and maneuvers that exceed average expectations earn plus scores while errors and faults earn minus scores or penalties. Understanding exactly what judges are evaluating and how individual moments in a run translate to specific score adjustments allows a competitor to make strategic decisions and to understand why their score reflects what it does — information that is essential for improving from one competition to the next. The qualities judges reward in a cutting run are grouped around the horse's ability to control the cow with athleticism, correctness, and degree of difficulty. A horse that works a challenging cow with explosive, correct movement — stopping squarely when the cow stops, crossing with athleticism when the cow changes direction, and maintaining position without the rider's assistance throughout — earns plus maneuver scores that elevate the base score above 70. The cumulative effect of several strong maneuver scores can produce a competitive run in the high 70s that is very difficult to beat. Penalties are assessed for specific errors defined in the rulebook. Losing the cow — allowing it to return to the herd — results in a major penalty. The horse quitting a cow before the rider picks up the reins results in a major penalty. The rein touching or appearing to cue the horse after the hand has been dropped results in a penalty. Each of these errors carries a specific point deduction that is non-negotiable regardless of how well the rest of the run was performed. Time is also a factor — a run must demonstrate sufficient work within the allotted time to receive a score, and a horse that works a cow reluctantly or that requires extensive setup time before engaging diminishes the scoring opportunity available within the clock.