This page covers IBPS PO Paper Folding & Cutting with complete concept notes, 1 graded practice MCQs, key points and exam-specific tips. Free to study.
When paper is folded and cut, the cuts create symmetric patterns when unfolded. Each fold creates a mirror effect. The number of holes depends on how many times the paper was folded
💡Key Rules
First, count the number of folds carefully. Each fold doubles the number of holes. One cut on a paper folded once = 2 holes. One cut on a paper folded twice = 4 holes.
Second, holes appear symmetrically around fold lines. Third, the position of holes mirrors across each fold line. Fourth, the shape of holes remains the same, only position changes.
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Exam Patterns
What examiners ask — read before attempting PYQs
SSC CGL typically asks 1-2 questions on this topic. Questions show 2-4 folding steps followed by cutting. You get 4 answer choices showing different unfolded patterns. The cuts are usually simple shapes - circles, triangles, or small squares.
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Shortcuts
Use these to save 30–60 seconds per question
Use the 'Fold Count Formula' - Number of holes = 2^(number of folds) × number of cuts. For symmetry, imagine drawing lines where folds occurred. Holes must appear symmetrically on both sides of these imaginary lines.
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Worked Example
Solve this step-by-step before moving on
1
Step 1
Count folds = 2 folds (vertical + horizontal)
2
Step 2
Count cuts = 1 cut (one circle)
3
Step 3
Apply formula = 2^2 × 1 = 4 holes
4
Step 4
Determine positions - Original cut was at top-right of folded paper. When unfolded, holes appear at all four corners (top-right, top-left, bottom-right, bottom-left) due to symmetry around both fold lines.
5
Step 5
Verify symmetry - Draw imaginary vertical and horizontal lines through center. Holes are symmetric around both lines.
Advanced Trick: For complex folding, trace the cut position backwards through each fold. Start from the final cut position and mirror it across each fold line in reverse order.
Common Mistake: Students often forget to account for all folds or miscalculate symmetry. Remember that each fold creates a new axis of symmetry. Also, don't confuse the number of paper layers with the number of holes. Focus on fold lines, not thickness.
Test Paper Folding & Cutting under exam conditions
A square sheet of paper is folded in half from left to right (vertical fold along the center). Then a circular hole is punched exactly at the center of the folded sheet. When the sheet is fully unfolded, how many holes will appear and where will they be located?
60-Second Revision — Paper Folding & Cutting
Remember: Each fold doubles the hole count from cuts
Formula: Holes = 2^(number of folds) × cuts made
Trick: Holes must be symmetric around all fold lines
Method: Count folds first, then apply symmetry rules
Trap: Don't confuse paper thickness with number of holes
Speed tip: Eliminate options that violate symmetry immediately