The systems and methods according to embodiments of the present disclosure provide optimal tissue effect during an electrosurgical procedure. A system and method for controlling an electrosurgical generator is provided including sensing an impedance of target tissue; generating electrosurgical energy in a first phase at a first power level until the sensed impedance of the target tissue is greater than a first threshold impedance; generating a plurality of pulses of electrosurgical energy in a second phase at a second power level, each pulse being generated until the sensed impedance of the target tissue is greater than a second threshold impedance set for that pulse; and generating at least one high-voltage pulse in a third phase at a third power level for a predetermined duration to divide the target tissue.