What is formed by lightly pressing and lifting the brush tip on paper?

Correct answer: A small mark or leaf-like stroke

The governing concept is the press-and-lift brushstroke. The tip first deposits a small amount of paint when it touches the paper; lifting it quickly stops the stroke before it becomes long or broad. Depending on the pressure and angle, the result can resemble a small mark, teardrop, or leaf. Thus option A is correct. A long line needs continued movement, a full area needs repeated filling, and an empty space contains no deposited paint.