Which fingerprint pattern is the most common?

The most common fingerprint pattern is the loop. Loops are characterized by ridges that enter from one side of the fingerprint, loop around, and exit on the same side. This pattern is prominent in the general population and is believed to occur in about 60 to 70 percent of fingerprints, making it the most prevalent type.

In contrast, arches, whorls, and delta patterns make up a smaller percentage of fingerprint patterns. Arches, for example, are simpler and have ridges that flow from one side to the other without looping back, occurring in about 5 percent of fingerprints. Whorls, which involve circular or spiral patterns, represent approximately 30 to 35 percent of fingerprints. Deltas are points where ridge lines diverge, and while they are important in identifying specific patterns, they are not considered a standalone fingerprint category but rather a characteristic found in whorls and loops.

Thus, the loop's higher frequency among the different fingerprint patterns distinguishes it as the most common type.