Efficient and error-free scanning is crucial for processing large volumes of OMR (Optical Mark Recognition) sheets. At Addmen Group, our OMR software is designed to handle the scanned images of OMR sheets from any scanner, providing fast and accurate data capture. In this guide you’ll learn how to scan OMR sheets correctly — covering scanner choice, file formats, resolution, and best practices to ensure top results.
The scanning step is foundational for accurate OMR processing. Incorrect scan settings or file formats can lead to misreads, errors or manual corrections. By scanning OMR sheets properly you:
One of the key advantages of Addmen Group’s OMR solution is the freedom to use any regular image scanner. According to our feature set: “Scanner used for scanning OMR sheets … any company, any brand, any model can be used.”
A standard flatbed or Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) scanner suffices.
Choose a scanner whose speed meets your volume requirements (for instance, hundreds or thousands of sheets).
Ensure sheets feed smoothly and are correctly aligned—not skewed, torn or folded.
Scan and save image/picture (not “document”) format.
Acceptable formats: BMP, TIFF, JPG.
Avoid: PDF, multi-page PDF or multi-page TIFF where possible.
For standard OMR sheets: 100 dpi is acceptable; 100-200 dpi recommended.
If sheets include barcode/OCR/ICR/image: 150-200 dpi is advisable.
Scanning modes: B/W (1-bit) for simple black/white forms; grayscale or colour when more complexity present.
Ensure all four index points (corners) of the sheet are visible and captured.
Maintain sufficient white space around the sheet edges so the reader software can auto-align the image.
Avoid increasing brightness or contrast unless required; scan in default settings if possible.
If using ADF, ensure sheets are neat and free from folds, creases, or extra marks that might confuse the detection.
Consistent scanning environment: same resolution and mode across batches helps minimize errors.
Prepare the OMR sheets – ensure sheets are printed properly, filled in, and free of damage.
Set up scanner & software – connect scanner, choose scan mode, set resolution, choose file format.
Scan sheets – feed sheets into scanner. After scanning, images drop into designated folder.
Run the OMR reading software – the scanned images are processed: auto alignment, bubble detection, barcode/OCR (if any).
Review & export results – check for any flagged sheets (skew, light marks) and export data to required formats (Excel, CSV, PDF).
If many sheets are being flagged for skew/tilt: check alignment in scanner feeder, reduce tilt, re-scan.
If detection is missing bubbles: check resolution (raise to 150-200 dpi), ensure proper filling intensity (dark enough).
If file size is abnormally large: consider compression or scanning at slightly lower dpi but ensure clarity.
If sheets include colour elements or photographs: switch to colour/greyscale mode and adequate dpi.
Independence from special hardware: Use any scanner, reducing costs.
Highly accurate scanning and reading—even rotated, skewed or mis-printed sheets can be handled.
Flexible workflows for full scanning, reading and result generation within one ecosystem.
Trusted by institutions across India and globally for OMR scanning, reading and analytics.
Q1: Can I scan sheets in PDF format?
No—OMR scanning requires image formats (BMP, TIFF, JPG). PDF is not supported for accurate reading.
Q2: What minimum resolution should I use?
For standard sheets, 100 dpi is sufficient. For sheets with barcode, OCR, images or colour, use 150-200 dpi.
Q3: Do I need a special OMR scanner?
No—any regular flatbed or ADF image scanner will work. No special dedicated OMR hardware is required.
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