When sharpening a knife, the general practice is to sharpen it by moving the blade against the sharpening medium in a consistent and controlled manner. The direction in which you sharpen a knife depends on the type of sharpening method you are using:

1. Edge-trailing or Pulling: This is the most common sharpening technique. In this method, the knife is moved across the sharpening medium with the edge trailing or pulling behind. This means you start the motion with the base or heel of the blade and slide towards the tip, maintaining a consistent angle. This method is commonly used with sharpening stones, honing rods, or other manual sharpening tools.
2. Edge-leading or Pushing: This technique is less common but still employed in certain situations. With edge-leading sharpening, the knife is moved across the sharpening medium with the edge leading or pushing ahead. This means you start the motion with the tip of the blade and slide towards the base or heel, again maintaining a consistent angle. Edge-leading sharpening is often used with guided sharpening systems or certain electric sharpeners.

Whether you use the edge-trailing or edge-leading method, it is important to maintain a consistent angle and apply even pressure while sharpening. This ensures that the edge is sharpened evenly and results in a consistent cutting performance.

Remember, when sharpening a knife, take your time, be cautious, and follow proper safety precautions. Always refer to the specific instructions and recommendations of the sharpening tools or systems you are using to achieve the best results.