Waiting lets the fines settle.
The tiniest particles slip through a metal mesh. Giving them a few minutes to settle — and pressing only to the surface — keeps them out of your cup.
What it is
Letting the finest particles sink to the bottom of a French press before pouring.
Why it matters
A metal mesh lets fine particles through. Plunge right away and they end up in your cup as sediment, still extracting and adding bitterness.
In practice
Wait a few more minutes after skimming, then lower the plunger only to the surface — it's a strainer, not a press — and pour slowly. Leave the last bit in the pot.