Is word "should" used in instructions means mandatory to follow?

Question

In an instruction if it mentioned that "candidate should write in black color pen" is it mandatory for student to write in black color pen?

Answer 1

Dear Arun,

    If you are taking a test, and it says that you should use black pen, then use black pen.  Also, "should" means that it is the right way to do something.  However, I should it breakfast, but I ran out of time.  It is not suggesting that it is mandatory that I eat breakfast.  It would have been the right thing to do.

 

                            Susan C.