Paper Folding and Cutting Reasoning, Concepts, Short Tricks and Tips

Published on 8 August 2025 by

Paper Folding and Cutting is a crucial reasoning topic frequently asked in various competitive exams like SSC, Banking, RRB, and State PSC. In this blog, we have provided the details of what Paper Folding and Cutting reasoning is, why it is important, key short notes, formulas, tricks, and more.

What Is Paper Folding and Cutting in Reasoning?

Paper Folding and Cutting is a type of spatial reasoning question where a paper is folded one or more times and then cut in certain patterns. The candidate is required to visualize the final unfolded shape or pattern after cutting.

This topic comes in exams because it tests logical thinking, spatial visualization skills, and the ability to decode patterns essential skills for problem-solving under time constraints.

To solve these questions, one needs strong visualization ability, logical deduction, and sometimes the ability to mentally rotate or unfold the paper.

Why Is Paper Folding and Cutting Important in Competitive Exams?

Paper Folding and Cutting is an important topic because it tests candidates’ spatial and logical reasoning skills with relatively straightforward questions. It can be a scoring topic if practiced well.

ExamNo. of QuestionsDifficulty
SSC CGL / CHSL1–2Easy
IBPS PO / SBI PO1–2Moderate
RRB NTPC / Group D1Easy
State PSC / Police1–2Moderate
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Paper Folding and Cutting Reasoning Short Notes

Some of important terms used to solve questions from this topic are as follows:

TermDetails
FoldThe process of folding the paper along a line
CutThe area or points where paper is cut after folding
UnfoldVisualizing how the paper looks after unfolding
SymmetryCuts appear symmetrically on unfolded paper
Multiple FoldsPaper can be folded more than once before cutting
Types of CutsSingle hole, multiple holes, slits, shapes

Common Concepts Used in Paper Folding Reasoning

Commonly used concepts to solve paper folding questions are as follows:

ConceptDetails
Single FoldPaper folded once, cut applied
Multiple FoldsMore than one fold before cutting
Symmetrical CutsCuts mirror on opposite sides when unfolded
VisualizationAbility to mentally unfold and predict cuts
Mirror ImageFolded sections show mirror patterns
Logical DeductionInferring patterns from cuts and folds
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What Are the Types of Paper Folding and Cutting Questions in Reasoning?

Paper Folding and Cutting questions vary but mainly fall into these categories:

  • Direct: Simple one or two fold patterns, predict final cuts.
  • Puzzle-based: Multiple folds and complex cut patterns, often with multiple choice answers.
  • Coded (symbol-based): Use symbols or letters to represent folds and cuts.
  • Mixed-concept reasoning: Combine paper folding with other concepts like symmetry or pattern recognition.

Paper Folding and Cutting Formulas for Reasoning

Though this topic is mostly visualization-based, these logical templates act like formulas to speed up solving:

  • Number of holes after cuts = Number of cuts × (2^number of folds)
  • Symmetrical cuts appear on all folds when unfolded
  • Each fold doubles the number of visible cut points after unfolding
  • Cuts on fold edges mirror on opposite sides

Paper Folding and Cutting Tricks for SSC CGL and Other Exams

Here are quick, proven tricks for faster solving:

  1. Visualize the fold lines clearly before imagining cuts.
  2. Start unfolding the paper mentally from the last fold made.
  3. Use symmetry clues to predict multiple holes from a single cut.
  4. For multiple folds, remember each fold doubles cut points on unfolding.
  5. Sketch rough diagrams if allowed, to track cuts and folds.
  6. Eliminate options that do not satisfy symmetrical patterns.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid while Solving Paper Folding and Cutting

While solving questions based on this topic, aspirants must avoid the following mistakes:

  1. Ignoring the number of folds – always count folds to calculate total layers.
  2. Neglecting symmetry – cuts appear symmetrically after unfolding.
  3. Misinterpreting cut positions – cuts on folded edges reflect on multiple places.
  4. Skipping rough sketches – visualization improves with simple diagrams.
  5. Rushing without stepwise unfolding – mentally unfold stepwise for accuracy.

FAQs

Q1: How to solve Paper Folding and Cutting questions fast?

A1: Practice visualization by breaking down each fold step-by-step and focus on symmetry. Sketching rough diagrams helps.

Q2: Are Paper Folding and Cutting questions asked in SBI PO Mains?

A2: Rarely in Mains, but common in prelims. It’s best to prepare them for prelims.

Q3: Can I skip Paper Folding and Cutting in SSC CGL reasoning?

A3: No, since it’s a scoring topic with easy to moderate difficulty and usually appears every year.

Q4: What are symbol-based Paper Folding questions?

A4: These questions use symbols to represent folds and cuts, requiring decoding before visualization.