In which technique is the pencil held nearly flat to create tone with the side rather than the point?

Correct answer: Side shading

Side shading uses the broader side of the graphite rather than the sharp point, so the artist can cover a larger area with a relatively even tone. Holding the pencil nearly flat helps distribute the mark and reduces narrow, scratch-like lines. Option A is correct. Blind contour depends on observing an outline, stippling uses dots, and an impressed line is made by pressure rather than broad tonal coverage.