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The speed square is essential for ensuring square cuts in framing because it serves as a combined framing square and triangular ruler. It allows a carpenter to quickly mark accurate angles, particularly 90-degree angles, which are crucial for constructing square corners in a frame. Using the speed square, one can measure and mark lines for cutting lumber, ensuring that the cuts align perfectly, which is vital for the stability and integrity of the framing structure. This tool also helps in making repeated cuts at the same angle, increasing efficiency and accuracy in the framing process.

While the tape measure is important for measuring lengths and ensuring pieces fit correctly, it does not provide the same level of precision for making square cuts as the speed square does. The utility knife is primarily for cutting softer materials like drywall or insulation, and the reciprocating saw is a cutting tool best suited for rough cuts and demolition rather than precise angle measurements in framing. Thus, the speed square uniquely fulfills the need for making accurate square cuts.