As I've pointed out, a lot of our printing is for non-formal, utilitarian purposes: maps, rough drafts, lists, etc. Many don't realize their computers offer a way to print these documents in a way that will save ink--printing in draft or economy mode.

In draft or economy mode, your printer uses about half the ink, and the image comes out lighter though legible. Between draft mode and shaking the print cartridges, I've squeezed a lot of use of my print cartridges. And as I've pointed out, it's very green to put these utilitarian print jobs on the backs of re-used paper.

Below I'll tell you how to change to draft or economy modes for PC's and Mac's.

For PC's:

Bring up the Print menu: Ctrl+P
Select your printer's Properties (or Preferences), which is typically the button right beside your printer choice.
Select the draft mode. This menu is typically printer specific. For mine, an Epson, it's the first menu that appears along with choices like text, photos or text & photos.
Click "OK."

For Mac's (OS X):

Bring up the Print menu: Command (or "apple") key+P
On the second pulldown menu under Presets, select "Print Settings."
Beside Mode, select the "Advanced" radio button.
On the "Print Quality" pulldown menu, select "Ecoonomy."
Then choose "Print."