How to Fill in an OMR Form

OMR forms record your marked responses for scanning and evaluation.

The initials “OMR” refer to “Optical Mark Recognition.” An OMR form filled in by hand records yours responses to a list of questions. Examples of OMR forms include application forms, ballots, answer sheets, and questionnaires in the education and business sectors. OMR technology in software applications allows efficient scanning and extraction of the data you marked on the OMR form.

Things You'll Need

• Black ballpoint pen
• HB pencil or other writing tool specified for this form
• Eraser

Instructions

1. Hold a pen or pencil compatible with the OMR form. For example, if the form specifies a black ballpoint pen or HB pencil, use only those writing tools to mark your responses.

2. Print in block letters or capital letters in areas that require your data. For example, your name, identification number or school. Do not write outside the specified areas.

3. Read each question and fill in the outlined symbols, such as boxes, ovals or circles for your preferred responses. Some multiple choice questions allow more than one response to be filled in on the OMR form. If the question sheet and OMR form are separate pages, mark the responses on the OMR form. Some OMR forms include abbreviations, such as “Q2” referring to question 2 on a separate sheet, followed by a line of outlined symbols as a response. Completely fill the outlined geometric shape with a dark mark.

4. Erase with a pencil or ink eraser any markings that appear outside the demarcated area. If you wish to change your response, remove all markings from inside the outlined symbol. Be careful not to rub the eraser too hard against the paper.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not insert tick marks, “X” marks or partially fill in the shapes.

• Do not write or make marks outside the demarcated area. For example, no marks or smudges should appear outside a filled circle.

• Keep the OMR form clear on the corners, bottom sheet and elsewhere to minimize rejection during scanning.

References

• Imaging Components: OCR Components, ICR Components & OMR Components
• Form Return: OMR, OMR Software, Optical Mark Recognition