What type of charcoal is suitable for creating a variety of tonal effects and typically produced in pencil form?

The type of charcoal suitable for creating a variety of tonal effects and typically produced in pencil form is compressed charcoal. This form of charcoal is made by combining charcoal powder with a binder and then pressing it into molds, resulting in a dense and dark medium that can create strong, rich lines with a wide range of tonal values. Compressed charcoal is particularly favored for its ease of use and ability to hold a point when sharpened, making it excellent for detailed work and shading.

In contrast, stick charcoal and vine charcoal are typically more suited for broader strokes and softer lines; they often create lighter marks and may not provide the same variety in tonal range as compressed charcoal. Powdered charcoal, while useful for specific techniques—such as creating washes or applications in charcoal drawing—does not lend itself to the precise control offered by compressed charcoal pencils, which are designed for detailed artwork and fine techniques.