Deficit irrigation is a crucial strategy in contemporary agriculture, driven by increasing water scarcity and the overexploitation of water resources due to growing demand and the effects of climate change. It is highlighted that nearly 30% of the water used in agriculture is misused due to over-irrigation, creating the need to optimize water use through more efficient practices. Deficit irrigation involves deliberately restricting irrigation to maximize crop production and quality without significantly compromising the required amount of water. Various types of deficit irrigation are presented, including controlled and regulated deficit irrigation. It is emphasized that this technique allows for better quality agricultural products, promotes an energetically and environmentally responsible use, and can be more profitable for farmers. However, disadvantages and risks are also mentioned, such as the potential reduction in yield under adverse climatic conditions. Efficient strategies for scheduling deficit irrigation are discussed, based on the critical growth stages of plants, and examples of successful application in different crops are presented. Furthermore, recent research aimed at optimizing irrigation methods is highlighted, making use of technologies that support water management based on water stress. The adoption of deficit irrigation is vital for agricultural sustainability, recommending an approach that includes producers' perceptions and the creation of incentives for its successful implementation. The importance of generating technologies that align with the specific needs of producers and the socioeconomic context in which they operate is underscored.