When entering appointments in the appointment book, what writing utensil should be used?

Using a pencil for entering appointments in the appointment book is preferred because it allows for easy modifications. Appointments can often change due to various reasons such as cancellations or rescheduling. If a pencil is used, mistakes can be easily erased without leaving a permanent mark, maintaining the clarity and neatness of the appointment records. This is particularly important in a dental practice where accurate scheduling is critical for patient flow and management.

On the contrary, using a pen, marker, or charcoal would create permanent records that cannot be easily altered. Ink can smudge, making it difficult to read corrections, and a marker or charcoal could be too bold or messy, resulting in an unclear appointment book. Thus, a pencil is the most practical choice for its flexibility and clarity in record-keeping.