Optical mark recognition

OMR (optical mark recognition) is a form of automated data input. Marks are made on a specially printed paper forms which are then read by an OMR reader. The data is then sent to a computer for processing. One of the most common uses of OMR is in multiple choice examinations. Students mark their answers on specially printed sheets using either a pencil or a special marker. The sheets are then collected in and the data read using a sheet feed OMR scanner.

OMR test form, with registration marks and drop-out colors, designed to be scanned by dedicated OMR device

Other Uses

• Attendance registers in schools
• Survey forms for market research
• Time sheets in factories
• Lottery Forms
• School tests

Advantages

• The technology is easy to use and requires little training
• This helps us to easily detect mistakes in an answer sheet

Disadvantages

• Marks have to be accurately positioned to prevent mistakes
• False readings can make data entry slow