Paper Folding & Cutting for SSC CGL
Master 3D Visualization from 2D Patterns
1. Introduction
Paper Folding & Cutting questions are an important part of SSC CGL Non-Verbal Reasoning. They test your ability to visualize 3D outcomes from 2D patterns.
These questions are scoring because once you understand the rules of folding and cutting, you can quickly predict the final pattern.
2. Definition
Paper Folding: A flat paper is folded one or more times in a specific manner.
Paper Cutting: A shape or pattern is cut from the folded paper.
Objective: Determine the final shape or pattern when the paper is unfolded.
Example: A square paper is folded in half and a triangle is cut from the folded edge.
When unfolded, two triangles appear symmetrically.
3. Types of Paper Folding & Cutting Questions
Single Fold & Cut:
Paper folded once, cut at specific positions, then unfolded.
Multiple Folds & Cuts:
Paper folded 2–3 times, cuts made, then unfolded.
Requires symmetry and visualization skills.
Hole / Dot Patterns:
Cuts or holes made at certain positions; identify final pattern after unfolding.
Problem-Solving Approach:
Visualize folding sequence first, then position of cuts, finally unfold the paper mentally or sketch.
4. Previous Year SSC CGL Examples
2018 Tier I: Paper folded twice, a small triangle cut near folded edge.
Question: Identify unfolded pattern
2019 Tier I: Square paper folded thrice, a circle cut at the center.
Question: Final figure when unfolded
2020 Tier I: Paper folded once, two dots marked.
Question: Identify dot positions after unfolding
Practicing previous year questions improves 3D visualization and symmetry recognition skills.
5. Strategy to Approach Paper Folding & Cutting Questions
- Analyze the folds carefully: Understand which edges are folded
- Mark cut positions: Note exact locations relative to folds
- Visualize unfolding: Mentally or sketch how the paper unfolds
- Look for symmetry: Patterns repeat due to folds
- Practice with real paper: Helps strengthen spatial visualization skills
6. Quick Recap
- Paper Folding & Cutting tests 3D visualization from 2D patterns
- Observe folding sequence, cut position, and symmetry
- Use mental visualization or sketching for accuracy
- Regular practice enhances speed and precision
7. Practice Questions
Try solving these to test your understanding:
1. A square paper is folded once in half, a small circle is cut near the folded edge. Unfold the paper and identify the number of circles.
2. A paper is folded twice (both folds along the edges), a triangle is cut from the folded corner. What is the final unfolded shape?
3. A square paper has two dots marked after folding. Identify the positions of the dots after unfolding.
4. A rectangular paper folded once horizontally, a semi-circle is cut from the folded edge. How does it appear when unfolded?
5. Paper folded thrice and a square cut at the center. Sketch the final pattern.
Click for Answers
1. Two circles (Symmetrically placed on both halves)
2. Four triangles (Symmetrically arranged due to two folds)
3. Four dots (Symmetrically positioned after unfolding)
4. Full circle (Two semi-circles join to form a circle)
5. Eight squares arranged symmetrically
Practice by folding real paper and making cuts to strengthen visualization skills.
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