Close shaving is the practice of shaving the beard during the second time over:

Close shaving involves the technique of shaving against the grain of the hair after an initial pass with the grain. This method is essential for achieving the closest shave possible because shaving against the grain allows the razor to cut the hair at a closer angle to the skin, removing any remaining stubble that may not have been fully shaved in the first pass.

When performing a close shave, barbers typically recommend first shaving with the grain to avoid irritation and allow for a smoother second pass. Following this, shaving against the grain helps ensure all hair is effectively cut, resulting in a clean and polished look. The other techniques mentioned, like circular motion or shaving without lather, may lead to uneven results or increased risk of skin irritation, and are not beneficial for achieving a close shave.