# shouldBeTreatedAsInkEvent(_:) Indicates whether a pen-down event should be treated as an ink event. ``` func shouldBeTreatedAsInkEvent(_ event: NSEvent) -> Bool ``` ## Parameters `event` An event object representing the event to be tested. ## Return Value Returns if the specified event should be treated as an ink event, if it should be treated as a mouse event. ## Discussion This method provides the ability to distinguish when a pen-down event should start inking versus when a pen-down event should be treated as a mouse-down event. This allows for a write-anywhere model for pen-based input. The default implementation in [`NSApplication`](/documentation/AppKit/NSApplication) sends the method to the [`NSWindow`](/documentation/AppKit/NSWindow) object under the pen. If the window is inactive, this method returns , unless the pen-down is in the window drag region. If the window is active, this method is sent to the [`NSView`](/documentation/AppKit/NSView) object under the pen. The default implementation in [`NSView`](/documentation/AppKit/NSView) returns , and [`NSControl`](/documentation/AppKit/NSControl) overrides and returns . This allows write-anywhere over most `NSView` objects, but allows the pen to be used to track in controls and to move windows. A custom view should override this method to get the correct behavior for a pen-down in the view. --- Copyright © 2026 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. | [Terms of Use](https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/terms/site.html) | [Privacy Policy](https://www.apple.com/privacy/privacy-policy)