Pen vs Pencil
Pens and pencils are the most common tools used for writing on paper, and they are essential tools for children learning to write. While they both leave an impression on a piece of paper, that is where their similarities end. Many differences exist between pens and pencils, from their materials to their writing methods.
Before pens or pencils were invented, humans developed written language and used tools such as bird feathers or bamboo sticks to write. These early writing tools were dipped in ink to leave an impression on paper.
What is a Pencil?
A pencil is a popular tool for both writing and drawing. It is made of wood and has a graphite core. When the core is sharpened and used to write on paper, it leaves a thin layer of graphite that adheres to the paper or other surface. Pencils leave dark grey or black impressions, although colored pencils are also available, mainly for artistic purposes. Students typically begin their learning years using pencils and later transition to pens when they can handle ink pens. Before the 1500s, pencils were made of soft lead and mostly used by artists.
Key Takeaways
- Pencils are made of wood and have a graphite core, leaving dark grey or black impressions.
- Pens are made of plastic or metal and leave impressions using ink, which can be in various colors.
- Pencils are better for erasing, while pens leave a more permanent impression.
What is a Pen?
A pen is a more sophisticated writing tool, made of plastic or metal, or a combination of both. Fountain pens were invented in the nineteenth century and revolutionized writing. However, since the invention of ballpoint pens, fountain pens have become less common, as ballpoint pens leave minimal ink on paper that dries quickly. Pens come in various colors, with the most popular being blue, black, and red. Red is often reserved for teachers marking students’ work. In 2006, 57 pens were sold every second worldwide, highlighting the importance of pens in everyday life.
What is the difference between Pen and Pencil?
- Purpose: Pencils are used when impressions may need to be changed later, while pens are used for permanent impressions.
- Material: Pencils are usually made of wood, while pens are made of plastic or metal.
- Writing method: Pencils use graphite, while pens use ink.
- Classification: Pencils are classified by their hardness and blackness, while pens are mainly fountain or ballpoint.
- Erasing: Pencils can be easily erased without dirtying the page, while erasing pen writing is more difficult and less neat.
- Durability: Pencils can be used as long as they can be sharpened, while pens can be used until their ink runs out or can be refilled.
Despite the widespread use of word processors for writing, both pens and pencils continue to be used by children and adults alike.
