Introduction.
For generations, the ink color of choice for ballpoint pens has been blue. The reason behind blue ink stems from the creation of the first ballpoint pens: blue ink was easier to produce from natural sources, and as more colors were developed, most continued to buy the more readily available inks and cheaper. Many people argue that blue is easier to read on white paper, but in this day and age of computers, is it time for everyone to switch to black ink pens?
Why use blue pens.
The only valid reason to continue using a blue ink pen is that many believe that a blue ink signature is a good way to clearly see that a document has been signed and is an original, not a photocopy, or a digital version that has it has simply been printed. Of course this is nonsense nowadays as printers can easily replicate any color and can easily print a letter with a blue signature on the bottom.
Why switch to black ink?
Chances are, any document you fill out, sign, or complete will eventually be scanned and stored digitally. Black ink is much easier for scanners and copiers to detect and read, making for a clearer copy.
Important documents, such as government forms or student essays and tests, should always be completed in black ink for the same reason.
For these reasons alone, it’s always best to carry or have easy access to a black pen.
Conclusion.
As this article has shown, there is little, if any, reason to continue using blue ink. The ascetics of a handwritten blue letter may look nicer and give the impression of a unique document, but it can actually be replicated and printed from a computer like a black ink letter.
