Highlighter

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Highlighter is a type of writing instrument used to draw attention to sections of text by marking them with a vivid, translucent color. A staple tool in both educational and professional settings, highlighters help in the annotation of documents, underlining or highlighting key information that needs to be noted or revisited. The invention of the highlighter is attributed to Dr. Frank Honn in 1963 who sought a way to help people mark important information in texts without obscuring the print.

History

The first highlighter is believed to have been introduced by the Carter's Ink Company under the brand name of Hi-Liter. This initial version set the standard for what would become an indispensable tool in offices and classrooms around the world. Over the years, highlighters have evolved in both form and function, with manufacturers introducing variations in tip shapes (such as chisel, fine point, and wide blade) and a wider array of colors beyond the traditional fluorescent yellow to include pink, orange, green, blue, and purple.

Types

Highlighters come in various forms, including liquid, gel, and dry types. Liquid highlighters are the most common, using a water-based ink that is absorbed by the paper. Gel highlighters, on the other hand, provide a smoother application without bleeding through the paper, making them ideal for use on thinner pages. Dry highlighters, resembling wax crayons or pencils, offer an alternative that does not smear or bleed through pages and is particularly favored by those working with delicate documents or books.

Features

A key feature of highlighters is their fluorescent ink, which is designed to be semi-transparent so that it does not obscure text. This allows for the marked sections to stand out without the loss of readability. Some highlighters also come with features such as retractable tips, erasable inks, and built-in sticky note flags for additional note-taking convenience.

Usage

Highlighters are widely used in a variety of settings, from academic note-taking and textbook study to document review in professional environments. They are particularly useful for students who employ active reading strategies, allowing for the visual segmentation of text for better comprehension and memory retention. In creative fields, highlighters can also be used for sketching, underlining, and color-coding information for easy reference.

Environmental Impact

The environmental impact of highlighters, particularly disposable ones, has led to increased interest in sustainable alternatives. Refillable highlighters and those made from recycled materials are becoming more popular as consumers seek to reduce plastic waste. Additionally, the use of non-toxic and water-based inks is a growing trend in the production of highlighters to minimize harm to both health and the environment.

In Popular Culture

Highlighters have transcended their practical utility to become a symbol of studiousness and productivity. They are frequently featured in back-to-school promotions and have been referenced in popular media as a tool associated with diligent students and professionals.

Highlighter Resources
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