CMYK

CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black). It is a color model used in color printing and is the standard for most printers. In this subtractive color model, colors are created by combining different percentages of these four ink colors.

• Cyan (C)
• Magenta (M)
• Yellow (Y)
• Key (Black) (K) – called "Key" because black is often used to enhance depth and detail.

When layered in varying amounts, these inks absorb (subtract) light to produce a wide range of colors. Unlike the RGB color model (used for screens), CMYK is optimized for physical media like brochures, posters, and packaging.

Example: To print a rich green, a printer might combine cyan and yellow inks in specific proportions.

Note: Because CMYK has a smaller color gamut than RGB, some vibrant screen colors may not reproduce exactly in print.