CMYK color model

The CMYK color model is a subtractive color model used in color printing as well as describing the printing process. The abbreviation CMYK refers to the four color components used in printing: cyan, magenta, yellow, and black (the key plate).

In subtractive models, inks reduce the amount of light reflected from a white or light background. White is the color of the substrate, and black results from the combination of inks. This contrasts with additive color models (e.g., RGB color model), where colors are produced by emitting light, white results from combining all primary colors, and black represents the absence of light. The addition of black ink reduces ink consumption and produces more consistent dark tones compared to using cyan, magenta, and yellow alone.