Office and IT work require the skill and knowledge of a vast array of different tools. Computers, scanners, phones and not least, the ballpoint pen. The basic components of all ballpoint pens are universal so these tips will work on any kind of pen you have, so long as it uses a ballpoint nib.

Here are some of the methods you can use to loosen the ink in a ballpoint pen and get it going again.

1. Scribble on a piece of paper until the ink loosens inside. This is the easiest method, but doesn’t work all the time.
2. Try different surfaces while scribbling. Similar to the method before. Using different surfaces can sometimes coax the ink out.
3. Heat the pen cartridges in hot water. The heat can loosen the ink inside, making it more malleable.
4. Microwave the pen. Microwaving the pen for 10 – 20 seconds is often enough to get the ink flowing again.