Documents or images designed for reproduction using only shades of gray, ranging from pure black to pure white, fall under this category. A typical instance is a text-based document intended for printing, where the content is rendered in black ink on white paper. Another example involves a photograph converted to grayscale before printing.
The practice offers significant advantages in terms of cost efficiency, particularly when dealing with large volumes of printed material. Toner or ink consumption is considerably lower compared to color printing. Furthermore, monochrome output often presents a sharper, clearer appearance for text and line art, which enhances readability and professionalism. Historically, this method was the standard for printing until the widespread adoption of color technology, and it remains a relevant choice for many applications today.
The following sections will delve into specific applications, design considerations, and optimization techniques relevant to creating effective documents and images in this format. Factors affecting print quality and strategies for maximizing impact will also be addressed.
