How to use Charcoal pencils?

Question:So I just recently bought charcoal pencils and I have never used them before. I only draw portraits and I have no clue what the different types of pencils mean. Cuz I got like a pack thing and it included pencils, actual charcoal, and a kneading eraser. The pencils say charcoal white 558, charcoal 557-hb hard, 557 2B med., 557 4B soft, 557-6B ex. soft, and carbon sketch 595 soft. What does that mean? What do I use for what?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: So I just recently bought charcoal pencils and I have never used them before. I only draw portraits and I have no clue what the different types of pencils mean. Cuz I got like a pack thing and it included pencils, actual charcoal, and a kneading eraser. The pencils say charcoal white 558, charcoal 557-hb hard, 557 2B med., 557 4B soft, 557-6B ex. soft, and carbon sketch 595 soft. What does that mean? What do I use for what?

It been awhile since I took art classes, but types of charcoal you listed are used in different ways. It all depends on what you're trying to do drawing wise. Is it precise? Textures? General sketching?

I'll guess that "hard" charcoal could be used similarly to pencil-type drawing (more precise, fine lines) while "soft" is used for soft lines or filler (shadows, shades, etc.).