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2 pencils are needed for standardized tests that use Scantron sheets. Harder pencils may smudge easier and be harder to erase, while lighter pencils may leave lighter marks that the machine has trouble reading. Use a No. 2 pencil just to be on the safe side.
Do Scantrons really need #2 pencils?
The pencil lead weight that corresponds to #2 pencil lead is “HB.” With the same type of lead, it’s deeply unlikely any scantron machine in use today, no matter how outdated, would have trouble reading your markings.
Can I use a 2B pencil on a Scantron?
Can one use an 2B pencil on an U.S. scantron? I have used 2B in America. No problems but I wouldn’t recommend it just because you are asking for less problems if you don’t.
What pencils work on scantrons?
#1 pencils would have worked fine, as they are darker than #2 pencils. But, unfortunately, they also smudge easier when erased or accidentally rubbed with your hand as you mark the scantron form, increasing the possibility of a “false positive” when the scantron was reading your form.
Why do I need a #2 pencil?
Students generally accept that No. 2 pencils are needed for standardized tests that use Scantron sheets. 2 pencils, but it’s a good idea to use them anyway. Harder pencils may smudge easier and be harder to erase, while lighter pencils may leave lighter marks that the machine has trouble reading.
What makes a #2 pencil so special?
This pencil is rightfully considered the most popular pencil in the world. Its lead is not too light and not too dark, and this pencil is not too hard or too soft. So, a #2 pencil can be used both by amateurs and professionals in different cases.
Do mechanical pencils use #2 lead?
Many mechanical pencils don’t include any kind of identification. However, even those mechanical pencils that claim to use No. 2 arrive in those very thin, easily breakable cylinder shapes.
Are Bic mechanical pencils number 2?
Mechanical pencils deliver a write-out equivalent to 2-1/2 wood-case pencils. Always ready, sharp and accurate, these No. 2 mechanical pencils are the smart choice at test time. Smooth-writing, break-resistant lead does not smudge and erases cleanly.
Why are mechanical pencils better?
The great thing about mechanical pencils is that they stay the same length, making it easier to get a consistent grip and promoting good writing habits. The erasers on regular pencils are generally bigger than those on mechanical pencils, but not by much.
Do Sharpies work on scantrons?
Students should use caution when filling in their Scantrons; while it may be tempting to use Sharpies and to mark bubbles with x’s, there is always a chance that the machine could reject it. “It may go through, it may work, but it’s best for the students to use pencil,” Ousmanou said.
How do I know if my pencil is number 2?
A No. 2 pencil is towards the middle when it comes to the hardness of lead (graphite) and the darkness of the shade. If a pencil has a number higher than 2 it means it has a harder graphite core, a harder point, and a lighter shade.
How do you know if a pencil is number 2?
The hardness of the graphite core is often marked on the pencil — look for a number (such as “2” “2-1/2” or “3”) — and the higher the number, the harder the writing core and the lighter the mark left on the paper.
Is 2B the same as a number 2 pencil?
Pencil lead is graded by hardness: a greater percentage of clay results in a harder lead. H (harder), F, HB and B (softer) are pencils of average hardness. Pencils ranging from 2B to 9B are softer still and are used for sketching; 2H to 9H are harder than average. A common American #2 pencil is equivalent to HB.
What happened to the number 1 pencil?
Today, many U.S. companies use a numbering system for general purpose, writing pencils that specifies how hard the lead is. (“F” also indicates a pencil that sharpens to a fine point.) The middle of the scale shows the letters and numbers that correspond to everyday writing utensils: B = No. 1 pencils, HB = No.
Are Paper Mate lead pencils #2?
Stay sharp on your best days and test days with Paper Mate Clearpoint Mechanical Pencil! With a convenient side-click lead advance, comfortable grip and #2 lead, it’s always got your back.
What is the difference between a #2 pencil and #1?
The Apple Pencil 2 is similar to its predecessor, but it’s definitely different. For example, it’s thinner and shorter, which gives me the feeling of an actual pencil. In addition, the Apple Pencil 2 is no longer completely round; one side is flat.
When did #2 pencils come out?
1820. Henry David Thoreau and his father substituted clay for wax and created the world’s first #2 pencils. The graphite produced an easily readable mark, making them standard school supplies in classrooms across the country.
What is a #2 pencil made of?
The typical #2 pencil is made of cedar. It is 7 1/2″ long, with a wooden shaft measuring 6 3/4″.
Is a number 2 pencil good for drawing?
The best pencils for drawing and sketching are a HB, 2B, 6B and 9B. Far better than buying a whole set of pencils, most of which will never be used.
Which pencil is best for writing?
The Best Pencils for Writing and Schoolwork Our pick. Palomino Golden Bear (Blue) A high-quality pencil you can buy in bulk. Budget pick. Dixon Ticonderoga (Yellow) Good performance for the price. Upgrade pick. Palomino Blackwing 602. The Cadillac of pencils. Also great. Faber-Castell Grip Graphite EcoPencils with Eraser.
What are HB pencils used for?
HB is Medium Hard and is commonly used for writing. If a Pencil is graded B it is softer than an HB grade and if it is graded H it is harder than an HB pencil. the Numbers next to the Letter just mean how soft or hard the Pencil is.
