All too often a tree worker will make cuts incorrectly.  It is important to understand that these incorrect cuts will lead to long term decline.  A proper cut, as in removing a branch or a limb, leaves the branch bark collar or ridge intact.  An improper cut is either too long as in a stub, or more often compromises the collar and is too close.  When a cut is too close, the tree is not able to wall off the wound internally and future decay spreads down into the system of the tree.