What material is referred to as the preferred choice for highlights in drawing?

White chalk is indeed the preferred choice for highlights in drawing due to its ability to produce a bright, luminous effect against darker tones. Highlights serve to create contrast, define edges, and suggest light falling on a subject, which can be effectively achieved with the use of white chalk. This material has a high opacity and can create a striking effect when applied over darker materials, enhancing the three-dimensionality of the forms being depicted.

When highlights are needed, artists often turn to white chalk because it allows them to layer brightness on top of existing values without muddying the overall composition. White chalk is also versatile; it can be smudged or blended for softer effects or used with sharp strokes for crisp highlights, making it an invaluable tool in traditional drawing practices.