When completing a citation, which writing tool should be used?

Using a black ballpoint pen when completing a citation is important for several reasons. First, black ink is standard practice in many formal documentation processes, as it ensures that the text is easily readable and does not fade over time. This is particularly crucial for legal documents such as traffic citations, where clarity and permanence are essential. Black ink provides a strong contrast on most paper types, making it accessible for anyone who needs to read the document later, including law enforcement, court officials, or defendants.

The use of other tools, such as red ink pens, pencils, or fountain pens, can lead to issues with legibility or permanence. Red ink is often reserved for corrections or highlighting specific information, which is why it is not suitable for completing formal documents. Likewise, pencil can easily smudge, fade, or be altered, undermining the integrity of the citation. Fountain pens, although they can produce a nice aesthetic, may not distribute ink consistently and can lead to smudging or bleeding on standard citation paper. Therefore, a black ballpoint pen is the most effective choice for ensuring that a citation maintains clarity, professionalism, and durability.