The best color paper for reading is generally considered to be pastel blue, pastel green, pastel yellow, or pastel purple.
Understanding the Impact of Paper Color on Reading
Choosing the right paper color can significantly impact reading comfort and comprehension. While white paper is commonly used, it can sometimes cause eye strain due to high contrast with black text. Studies suggest that certain colored paper can alleviate these issues, particularly for individuals with reading difficulties.
Benefits of Specific Colors
According to research, different colors can affect readers differently. Here's what we know about the recommended pastel colors:
- Pastel Blue: Blue has been shown to improve reading comprehension, especially for students who struggle with reading.
- Pastel Green: Green is often associated with relaxation and may help reduce eye strain.
- Pastel Yellow: Yellow can offer a softer contrast than white, making it easier on the eyes.
- Pastel Purple: Purple, similar to blue, may also have a calming effect that helps improve focus.
These colors reduce the high contrast between black text and white paper. This reduced contrast can make the reading experience more comfortable.
Colors to Avoid
Avoid using the color red, especially as an overlay. Research indicates that red can negatively impact reading comprehension. It is best to also avoid pastel pink.
Practical Tips for Choosing Paper Color
Here are some practical tips:
- Experiment: Try different colored papers to see which ones work best for your individual needs.
- Consider the Reader: The best color can vary depending on the individual's visual sensitivities and preferences.
- Use Overlays: If changing paper color isn't practical, consider using colored overlays, especially for short reading tasks.
- Print Test: Before committing to a specific color, print a test page to ensure the text is clear and readable.
| Color | Benefits | Potential Issues |
|---|---|---|
| Pastel Blue | Improves reading comprehension | None known |
| Pastel Green | Reduces eye strain, promotes relaxation | None known |
| Pastel Yellow | Softer contrast, easier on the eyes | None known |
| Pastel Purple | Calming effect, may improve focus | None known |
| Red | None Known | Decreases reading comprehension |
| Pastel Pink | None Known | Avoid using |
In conclusion, when selecting paper for reading, consider using pastel blue, pastel green, pastel yellow, or pastel purple as a beneficial alternative to white paper, especially if reading is often challenging or you're looking to reduce eye strain.
