Charcoal pencils (or charcoal sticks) are made from the charcoal powder. The colors of charcoal pencils generally include black, brown, and white. The black charcoal pencils can be used to easily create contrast on white or light-colored papers. White charcoal pencils are typically used to brighten certain areas or express on the colored paper.

There are different types of charcoal pencils: hard (HB), medium (2B), soft (4B) and extra soft (6B). 

The softer the charcoal pencil, the darker and thicker the drawing will be. Also, the softer charcoal medium tends to bind less well with the drawing paper, which can create charcoal dust on the drawing. The soft charcoal pencil is most suitable for sketching, drafting, and large-scale drawing. It is not easy to modify soft charcoal drawings.

The hard charcoal pencil drawing is easier to erase and modify, without causing messy spots. It is, however, easy to break when sharpened. The hard charcoal pencils can be used for in-depth drawing and expression of the more delicate areas.

The medium charcoal pencil is the most practical one among different types. With excellent control of the intensity during drawing, it can demonstrate the advantages of both soft and hard charcoal pencils.

One key difference between the charcoal pencils and the graphite pencils is that charcoal is not as shiny as graphite. It does not reflect light. The dark areas by charcoal are not slippery and relatively easier to erase.