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Follow these requirements for a form’s background:
  • Use dropout forms or forms with raster field borders if possible.
  • When creating a dropout form, use a color that vanishes during scanning. See the list of recommended colors in Recommended colors for dropout forms.
  • Always ensure there is a space between the explanatory text and the field contents. For dropout forms, print any information in the same color as the form background (except where explanatory text is used as an anchor instead of, or together with, black squares). Printing information in the background color lets you place it anywhere on the form, including inside the form fields.
  • Do not use blue colors for forms to be completed by hand. The blue background may merge with the blue ink likely used to complete the forms, which reduces recognition quality.