STEP 1
Cut the onion in half from root to tip (chopping off the top creates a stable base).
STEP 2
Peel off the skin.
STEP 3
Slice each half vertically (from root to tip), leaving the root intact to hold the pieces together. This also helps to keep the tears at bay.
STEP 4
Slice each half cross-wise, horizontally, discarding the root when done.