No. 2 Pencils
Shop all the Back to School Essentials
Trending now
No. 2 pencils are a must-have for any office or school room. They come in handy for a wide range of writing tasks, from math class to grading papers. Our collection of pencils includes all of the most popular brands, in a wide range of styles and colors. No matter what your needs are, we've got you covered.
No. 2 pencils for any handwriting needs
If you're looking for number 2 pencils, then you no doubt have a need in mind. Whether you need wooden, mechanical, or refill lead, our selection is full of options. Sharpened #2 pencils help you hit the ground running with a perfect point from the first use. Consider Ticonderoga brand no. 2 pencils for a school supply popular with teachers. Staples carries a variety of colors and styles in this and other trusted names.
Never worry about staying on track with a mechanical pencil
Mechanical pencils are perfect for students and professionals who need to make a lot of marks. With mechanical #2 pencils, you can write for hours without needing to refresh your supply. No sharpening required. They're popular for that exact reason and we have a great selection to choose from. Shop Staples for your pencil lead refills and back up supply needs.
Don't forget to stock up on plenty of pencils
No. 2 pencils are an art and school staple. Make sure to maintain your productivity by staying well-stocked. Buy a two pack of specialty number 2 pencils or purchase several dozen pencils for a larger group. Smaller package sizes are a great way to discover your very favorite no. 2 pencils. Come back and buy your pick in bulk.
FAQ
What are #2 pencils?
#2 pencils are common, frequently used pencils. They have a medium-soft lead that makes clear, dark lines. They are good for writing and for standard tests because they are easy to erase and the marks they make are clear and easy to read.
Why are number 2 pencils used for tests?
Number 2 pencils are used for tests because the graphite they use is the right darkness for optical answer sheet scanners to read clearly. These pencils make marks that scanners detect accurately and are less likely to make extra smudges that could cause errors.
Are all pencils no. 2?
No, not all pencils are number 2 pencils. Pencils are graded based on their lead hardness and darkness. The scale ranges from 9H (hardest) to 9B (softest), with HB and F in the middle. #2 pencils, also called HB pencils, fall in the middle of this scale and are considered the standard for everyday writing and scanning for tests.
How do I choose the right pencil for my needs?
Choosing the right pencil depends on your use. For regular writing, a #2 pencil is ideal. If you're doing artistic work, you might want softer pencils that make darker lines, such as 2B to 6B. Those who need precise, clean lines, like engineers or architects, might opt for harder pencils such as 2H or 4H. Consider what you'll be using the pencil for and how dark or precise you need the lines to be.