CertiPort Practice Exam

Which color mode is most effective for printing a poster on an offset press?

1. RGB

2. CMYK

3. HSB

4. LAB

The correct answer is: CMYK

The most effective color mode for printing a poster on an offset press is CMYK. This mode stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black) and is specifically designed for the printing process. When printing, especially in commercial settings, the CMYK color model accurately represents the range of colors that can be achieved with four-color printing processes. Each color in CMYK corresponds to a separate ink used in the printing process, allowing for a more precise combination of colors that results in high-quality prints. Using CMYK ensures that the colors in the final printed product will be true to what designers expect because it closely mimics the mixing of physical inks. In contrast, RGB (Red, Green, Blue) is more suited for digital displays and online visuals, where colors are created through light rather than ink mixing. HSB (Hue, Saturation, Brightness) is typically used in design software for selecting colors rather than for the actual printing process. LAB (Lightness, a* (green to red), b* (blue to yellow)) is more complex and typically used in professional color management systems rather than direct print applications. Therefore, when preparing a design for offset printing, using the CMYK mode is essential to ensure that the printed