A method for operating a machine tool/work machine includes providing a machine tool/work tool including a stroke element, a connection arrangement including a traction/pressure element and at least one traction/pressure point, a detachable connection including a connection element, a compensation element or a unit which generate a pre-stress, a (cutting) impact dampening, and compensates for a weight of the stroke element in the connection arrangement. The drive device acts on a work piece to be machined via the connection arrangement with the traction/pressure element and the at least one traction/pressure point via the stroke element. A force is produced via the compensation element or a unit corresponding to a weight of the traction/pressure element, the force being initiated independently from a drive force for the stroke element, to generate a pre-stress, a (cutting) impact dampening and a compensation of the weight of the stroke element in the connection arrangement.