What defines a softwood in the context of woodworking materials?

A softwood is primarily defined by its botanical characteristics, typically referring to trees that belong to the conifer family, such as pines, spruces, and firs. These trees have needle-like leaves and produce cones. Softwoods are generally lightweight compared to hardwoods, which come from deciduous trees.

In woodworking, the lightweight and ease of handling of softwoods make them appealing for various applications, particularly those that require less intricate finishing or are structural in nature. The working characteristics of softwoods allow for simpler cutting and shaping, making them a popular choice for beginners and for projects that require quick assembly or installation.

While softwoods can indeed be used in structural applications, such as framing and construction, the defining trait is their lighter weight and workability, which sets them apart from harder, denser hardwoods. This distinction highlights why the option regarding their lightweight nature and ease of working stands as the defining factor in identifying softwood.