Business Cards & Stationery Business Cards 2

Question 1

What is the standard business card size in the United States?

Accepted Answer

3.5 x 2 inches

Answer

The US standard business card size is 3.5 x 2 inches (89 x 51 mm).

Question 2

What does 'bleed' refer to in business card printing?

Accepted Answer

Artwork extending beyond the trim line to avoid white edges

Answer

Bleed is the extra artwork area (typically 1/8 inch) beyond the trim line that gets cut off, preventing unprinted white edges.

Question 3

Which paper weight is most commonly used for standard business cards?

Accepted Answer

14–16 pt cardstock

Answer

Most business cards are printed on 14–16 pt cardstock for durability and a premium feel.

Question 4

What is the 'safe zone' on a business card layout?

Accepted Answer

The inner margin where important text stays to avoid being trimmed

Answer

The safe zone is the inner margin (usually 1/8 inch from trim) where critical text and logos must stay so they aren't cut off.

Question 5

Which color mode should artwork be set to for professional business card printing?

Accepted Answer

CMYK

Answer

Commercial printing uses CMYK inks, so designing in CMYK prevents unexpected color shifts.

Business Cards & Stationery Practice Test