A print screen tonal control and compensation system and method are provided in which a compensated density curve is utilized to increase press predictability, performance, resources consumption, color variation, and quality. A computerized test pattern is generated, and by applying computer to plate technology, a printed press produces a printed test pattern. The test pattern is subsequently analyzed to identify the plugging point of the production run, and a compensated density curve is created to eliminate plugging within the production pattern. The density curve is then used to generate a compensated printing plate for use in a production press run.