A method for applying a toner comprising: forming, in a container containing a toner and magnetic particles for application of the toner, a magnetic brush of the magnetic particles; circulating the magnetic particles in the container; and forming a thin layer of the toner electrically charged on the toner carrying member; wherein the magnetic particles have a particle size distribution of 30 wt. % or more in the range of 150 to 200 mesh and 5 wt. % or less of under 250 mesh, and the weight ratio of the toner to the magnetic particles is from 5:95 to 50:50 in the region where the magnetic brush is formed.