Which method is commonly employed for joining two pieces of wood at a right angle?

The method that is most commonly employed for joining two pieces of wood at a right angle is the miter joint. This technique is widely used in carpentry, particularly in trim work and cabinetry, where aesthetics as well as structural integrity are important. The miter joint is created by cutting each piece of wood at a 45-degree angle, allowing them to meet at a right angle when assembled. This creates a clean and visually appealing edge, making it a popular choice for corners in picture frames, doors, and other items where a seamless look is desired.

In contrast, a butt joint connects two pieces of wood end to end or edge to edge without any angle cuts, which may not be as visually appealing for right-angled connections. A dado joint involves a groove cut into one piece of wood that allows another piece to fit into it, which is typically used for shelving and is not specifically suited for right-angle connections. The half lap joint involves removing material from both pieces so that they overlap each other, but it does not create a traditional right angle in the same way a miter joint does. Thus, the miter joint stands out as the method that effectively combines both strong structural performance and an attractive appearance when joining wood at a right angle.