So I get asked this question a lot but in all honesty I’ve never thought about it myself.
How do you know personally whether to bulk or to cut? What’s your go to sign in this regard? How do you plan?
There's no right or wrong answer with this decision - it's 100% up to you.
If you feel like you want to add size and strength, eat in a small caloric surplus for 8-12 weeks and then reassess your goals.
If you feel like you want to lose body fat and get leaner, eat in a small caloric surplus for 8-12 weeks and then reassess.
I always prefer a longer period of time for bulking and cutting, 8-12 weeks being the minimum IMO. If you keep going from surplus to deficit to surplus again you'll be spinning your wheels. Commit to one goal and give yourself time to change. Progression in either direction takes time