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Paper Sizes Explained

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Blog  >  Guides  >  Beginners' Guides  >  Stationery 101

Paper Sizes Explained

Paper Sizes Explained
August 28, 2023 - Posted by Connie to Guides, Paper, Beginners' Guides, Stationery 101
Paper Sizes Explained

A4, B5, and A5 are some of the most commonly used paper sizes in the world—but to North Americans, they sound more like bingo calls than paper sizes. The Letter paper size is commonly used in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. If you’re from one of these countries, you’ve probably printed a document on an 8.5 x 11 inch piece of paper.

However, Letter size is rarely used outside of North America because other countries use internationally standardized paper sizes. They may seem confusing at first, but they’re easy to understand after learning the logic behind them.

Keep reading or watch the video below to learn more about how international paper sizes work, how different sizes compare to Letter size, and which paper sizes work best for different applications.

Video: Paper Sizes Explained
What Does A4, B5, or A5 Mean? Paper Sizes Summary
  • Letter size paper (8.5 x 11 inches) is regularly used in North America.
  • The A and B series are used internationally.
  • Each paper size in a series is half as big as the previous one. For example, an A5 sheet of paper is 5.8 x 8.3 inches, while an A4 sheet is 8.3 x 11.7 inches.
  • A4, B5, and A5 are some of the most common international standard (ISO) paper sizes.
  • Japanese (JIS) B sizes are slightly larger than international standard (ISO) B sizes.
  • Choosing the right paper size is important for students, office professionals, and artists alike.
Table of Contents
Understanding International Paper Sizes

Most countries outside of North America use paper that fall into one of two series: A or B. Their measurements are defined by ISO 216, which was put together by the International Organization for Standardization.

A sizes are more common than B sizes, so we’ll start there.

A Series
The A series and the measurements for each size in the series are shown in the image.
The A series and the measurements for each size in the series are shown above.
Introduced in Germany during the 1920s, the A series quickly spread throughout Europe. By the 1970s, it was widely used throughout the world.

The first and largest A size is A0, which is 33.1 x 46.8 inches and has an area of one square meter. To create the next size, the previous size is cut in half horizontally. The resulting A1 size paper is 23.4 x 33.1 inches.

Due to a unique property of its aspect ratio, an A5 notebook is half the size of an A4 notebook.
Due to a unique property of its aspect ratio, an A5 notebook is half the size of an A4 notebook.
In most cases, cutting a paper in half would create two pieces with completely different proportions. But the A series uses an aspect ratio—the ratio of its width to its length—of 1:√2. When the paper is folded or cut in half horizontally, the two halves will have the same 1:√2 aspect ratio (approximately 1:1.4).

In countries that use the A series, the standard paper size is A4. At 8.3 x 11.7 inches, A4 paper is slightly longer and narrower than Letter size.

B Series
The B series and the measurements for each size in the series are shown in the image.
The B series and the measurements for each size in the series are shown above.
The B series is based on the same ideas as the A series. It also has an aspect ratio of 1:√2, and each size is half as large as the next size.

The main difference is that B sizes are halfway between A sizes. For example, a B5 notebook has more writing space than an A5 one, but is easier to carry than a full-sized A4 notebook.

However, the B series is a little more complicated because it’s different in Japan than the rest of the world.

A Semi B5 notebook is slightly shorter and narrower than a B5 (JIS) notebook.
A Semi B5 notebook is slightly shorter and narrower than a B5 (JIS) notebook.
According to the Japanese Industrial Standards Committee (JIS), Japanese B sizes are a little larger than ISO B sizes. Because of this, B size paper from a Japanese brand is often, but not always, slightly larger than B size paper from a non-Japanese brand.

One exception to the trend is the B5 size. Some Japanese brands use a paper size that’s sometimes called Semi B5. At 7 x 9.9 inches, it’s similar to ISO B5.

Check the “Specifications” tab on a product page to see measurements.
Check the “Specifications” tab on a product page to see measurements.
One very important thing to remember: while paper sizes are defined by international standards, that doesn’t mean every notebook from every brand is the same size. For example, an A5 Midori MD Notebook is 5.8 x 8.3 inches, while an A5 Rhodia Webnotebook is 5.6 x 8.3 inches.

At JetPens, we carefully measure all of the products shown on our website. If you need a specific size of notebook, be sure to check the “Specifications” tab on the product page.

Common Paper Sizes

In the table below, we’ve listed the most commonly used paper sizes for loose leaf paper, notebooks, and notepads. You can also see how each size compares to Letter size paper.

Japanese B sizes are included in the table because all of our B size products follow the JIS standard. ISO B sizes are in a separate table further down.
Size Dimensions (inches) Dimensions (centimeters) Area (inches and centimeters) Comparison to Letter Size
B4 (JIS) 10.1 x 14.3 in 25.7 x 36.4 cm 145.0 in²
935.5 cm²		 B4 (JIS)
A4 8.3 x 11.7 in 21.0 x 29.7 cm 96.7 in²
623.7 cm²		 A4
Letter 8.5 x 11.0 in 21.6 x 27.9 cm 93.4 in²
602.6 cm²		 Letter
B5 (JIS) 7.2 x 10.1 in 18.2 x 25.7 cm 72.5 in²
467.7 cm²		 B5 (JIS)
Semi B5 7.0 x 9.8 in 17.7 x 25.0 cm 68.6 in²
442.5 cm²		 Semi B5 (JIS)
A5 5.8 x 8.3 in 14.8 x 21.0 cm 48.2 in²
310.8 cm²		 A5
B6 (JIS) 5.0 x 7.2 in 12.8 x 18.2 cm 36.1 in²
233.0 cm²		 B6 (JIS)
A6 4.1 x 5.8 in 10.5 x 14.8 cm 24.1 in²
155.4 cm²		 A6
Pocket* 3.5 x 5.5 in 8.9 x 14.0 cm 19.2 in²
124.6 cm²		 Pocket
B7 (JIS) 3.6 x 5.0 in 9.1 x 12.8 cm 18.1 in²
116.5 cm²		 B7 (JIS)
A7 2.9 x 4.1 in 7.4 x 10.5 cm 12.0 in²
77.7 cm²		 A7
*Pocket size is not standardized, but it’s a commonly used size that is typically around 3.5 inches x 5.5 inches.


What Paper Size Should I Use?
The Best Paper Size For Students: A4 and B5

Students need plenty of space to take notes, but oversized notebooks can be too heavy to carry. For note-taking, we recommend B5 products. A B5 notebook is similar in size to a standard composition notebook, and B5 loose leaf paper is a little smaller than typical three hole punched paper, so it still feels familiar to North American students.

To keep paper handouts from teachers or professors organized, be sure to pick up an A4 folder, which can hold Letter size paper.

Kokuyo Campus Notebooks
Kokuyo Campus Notebooks are excellent for students.
Kokuyo Campus Notebooks are excellent for students.

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Kokuyo Campus Notebooks are the best notebooks for students. They come in sets of five, allowing you to dedicate one notebook per subject. Each notebook has 30 pages, which is the perfect amount for a semester. The notebook is also lightweight, so it won’t make a backpack uncomfortably heavy.

If you look closely, you can see Kokuyo’s unique dotted rule sheet style. Every horizontal line has evenly spaced dots so diagrams and vertical lines are easy to draw.

Kokuyo doesn’t just make Campus notebooks. Learn more about loose leaf paper, binders, and more in our dedicated guide.

Maruman 5 Chart Binders
You can keep loose leaf papers in the Maruman 5 Chart Binder.
You can keep loose leaf papers in the Maruman 5 Chart Binder.

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You can’t forget a binder for your loose leaf paper, and the Maruman 5 Chart is a great option. It has cutouts in the front cover that let you flip to an index tab without opening the binder. The binder also has rings that are easy to open. Simply unhook the tab at the bottom of the rings to swing them apart.

Speaking of rings: like other B5 Japanese binders, the binder has 26 rings. Having more rings prevents the paper from ripping at the holes. However, three hole punched paper won’t fit in Japanese binders. You can always use a hole punch to create your own refills.

The 5 Chart comes with five index tabs, and you can add accessories like sheet protectors and zipper cases. Remember that A4 and Letter sizes are bigger than B5, so you’ll need to fold handouts to fit them in the binder.

The Best Paper Size For Professionals: A4 and A5

The perfect paper size for office note-taking will depend on your desk space and how much writing you do. If you’re regularly writing full pages of notes, the A4 size will provide plenty of space. A smaller A5 product is a good choice for someone who just needs to jot down the occasional reminder.

Maruman Mnemosyne Notepad Holders
The Maruman Mnemosyne Notepad Holder keeps your notes and documents organized.
The Maruman Mnemosyne Notepad Holder keeps your notes and documents organized.

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A4 Maruman Mnemosyne Notepad Holders are excellent for office workers who have lots of notes and documents to keep track of. There are three holders to choose from, each with different pockets. They come with graph paper notepads that can be replaced when full.

If the A4 size is too big for you, try one of Maruman’s A5 notepad holders.

Our Maruman Mnemosyne guide has more details on these professional notebooks and notepads.

Kleid Original Notebooks
The Kleid Original Notebook won’t stand out in meetings.
The Kleid Original Notebook won’t stand out in meetings.

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Kleid Original Notebooks come in stylish cover colors that express your personality without standing out in meetings. Its high quality paper is printed with a 2 mm graph. You can use multiple lines for writing and easily create complicated flowcharts in the same notebook.

The A5 Landscape version is bound on the short side, so it takes up more horizontal space. It’s excellent for hybrid workers who pair laptops with notebooks. You can put the notebook under your laptop keyboard and save space.

The Best Paper Size For Journalers: A5, B6, and A6

The perfect journal is large enough to write all your thoughts without feeling cramped, yet small enough to fit comfortably on a desk or in a nightstand. A5, B6, and A6 notebooks are all good options for journaling.

If you'd like to try journaling but aren't sure how to incorporate it into your busy schedule, check out our guide on How to Journal for tips.

Midori MD Notebooks
Midori MD Notebooks look simple, but they’re some of the most well-made notebooks we’ve ever used.
Midori MD Notebooks look simple, but they’re some of the most well-made notebooks we’ve ever used.

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Although Midori MD Notebooks look simple, they’re some of the most well-made notebooks we’ve ever come across. The high quality, cream-colored paper works well with all kinds of pens and pencils. It won’t strain your eyes like bright white might, which is especially useful for journalers who prefer to write before bedtime.

Learn more about Midori MD paper in our guide.

Rhodia Webnotebooks
The Rhodia Webnotebook has an elastic closure and leatherette cover.
The Rhodia Webnotebook has an elastic closure and leatherette cover.

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Like the Midori MD Notebook, the Rhodia Webnotebook is filled with smooth, cream-colored paper. If you like to take your journal with you to a coffee shop, the Webnotebook’s cover and elastic closure make sure that the pages inside won’t get crumpled in your bag.

Rhodia is a famous French company that has been creating paper products since the 1930s. You can learn more about them in our guide.

The Best Paper Size For Travelers: Pocket, B7, and A7

A travel notebook needs to be portable. If it’s too big, you might not bring it with you. If it’s too small, it could be hard to find when it’s time to write something down.

Pocket, B7, and A7 are great sizes for traveling because they fit nicely in pockets and bags. Be sure to add a compact pen or pencil, too.

Field Notes Memo Books
Field Notes Memo Books are designed to travel with you anywhere.
Field Notes Memo Books are designed to travel with you anywhere.

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Field Notes Memo Books are inspired by vintage pocket notebooks and are designed to travel with you anywhere. They measure in at 3.5 x 5.5 inches and fit nicely in jacket pockets. They’re bound with durable staples and have rounded corners that won’t get dented like sharp corners do.

Be sure to check out the unique seasonal editions that Field Notes releases every year.

TRAVELER’S COMPANY TRAVELER’S notebooks
The TRAVELER’S COMPANY TRAVELER’S notebook is a beautiful leather cover that you can add notebook refills to.
The TRAVELER’S COMPANY TRAVELER’S notebook is a beautiful leather cover that you can add notebook refills to.

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The classy TRAVELER’S COMPANY TRAVELER’S notebook is actually a notebook cover that can hold at least two refills at once (you can use elastic bands to add more). The leather cover will gain a distinctive patina as you use it, becoming darker and collecting scuff marks. It becomes just as unique as you are.

Try picking different refills depending on how you like to travel. For example, use a weekly planner to keep track of your schedule, a lined notebook to write about your experiences, and a sketchbook to draw all the food you tried.

Learn more about the TRAVELER’S notebook and its different refills and accessories in our guide.

The Best Paper Size For Artists: Any

Artists should pick a sketchbook or drawing pad that is a good fit for where they draw. Those who like to sketch on walks should consider Pocket size sketchbooks that are easy to carry. Artists who always work at a desk can go bigger with B5 and larger sketchbooks.

Some artists experience “fear of the blank page” and are worried about messing up a brand new sketchbook. It might help to pick a smaller sketchbook, which is easier to start in because there’s less empty space.

In our picks below, we chose multimedia products that can work with a variety of different art supplies. Be sure to check out our Best Sketchbooks for Every Medium guide for more specific recommendations.

Maruman Soho & New Soho Series Sketchbooks
These Maruman Sketchbooks feature lightly textured, heavyweight paper.
These Maruman Sketchbooks feature lightly textured, heavyweight paper.

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These Maruman Sketchbooks feature lightly textured, heavyweight paper that can be used with wet and dry media, from charcoal to watercolors. Its glue binding is sturdy, but pages can be pulled out as needed. They’re available in sizes B4, B5, and B6.

We also recommend Global Art Hand Book Kona Grey Drawing Pads, which are filled with gray-toned paper. Drawing on toned rather than bright white paper allows you to express highlights and shadows in different ways. Try using colored pencils and white pens for interesting effects.

Stillman & Birn Sketchbooks
Stillman & Birn Sketchbooks are filled with papers suitable for different media.
Stillman & Birn Sketchbooks are filled with papers suitable for different media.

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High quality Stillman & Birn Sketchbooks are available in a variety of different sizes and paper types. Each paper type is made for specific media: for example, the Alpha series is medium weight with some tooth, so it works best with pencils and light ink washes. The Zeta series, on the other hand, is very thick and smooth, making it ideal for watercolors.

Stillman & Birn also offers black, kraft, and gray paper sketchbooks.

The Best Paper Size For Comic Creators: B4 and A4

Illustrators and comic artists need plenty of space to create page layouts and detailed drawings. Professional Japanese mangaka (manga artists) use B4 paper for their manuscripts because it’s the standard size accepted by publishers.

Semi-professional and amateur comic artists can use A4 paper, which also provides a good amount of drawing space.

Read our guide on The Best Manga and Comic Art Supplies to learn more about dip pens, drawing inks, and more.

Deleter Comic Paper
Deleter Comic Paper is made for professional comic creators.
Deleter Comic Paper is made for professional comic creators.

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B4 Deleter Comic Paper is made for professional use. It’s very thick, so drawing inks won’t bleed through. Screen tones can be applied with ease, too.

The paper is available in two formats: one has scale markings printed in non-photo blue, a pale blue which is easy to remove in photo editing programs. The second is completely blank, so you can create panels without getting distracted by scales.

Strathmore 400 Series Pads
Strathmore 400 Series Pads are filled with acid-free paper.
Strathmore 400 Series Pads are filled with acid-free paper.

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The Strathmore 400 Series is filled with acid-free paper that ensures your artworks will last. Choose from the Marker Pad, which is a good option for artists planning to color in their works with water- or alcohol-based markers, or the versatile Mixed Media Pad.
More Resources
Conclusion

Paper sizes might seem confusing at first, but A and B sizes are actually very straightforward! Do you have a favorite paper size for journaling, sketching, or note-taking? Let us know in the comments section below.

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Paper Sizes For Students
Product Paper Size Add to Cart
Kokuyo Campus Notebook - Semi B5 - Dotted 6 mm Rule - Pack of 5 Colors Kokuyo Campus Notebooks Semi B5 Add Items to Cart
Maruman 5 Chart Binder - B5 - 26 Holes - Black Maruman 5 Chart Binders B5 (JIS) Add Items to Cart
Paper Sizes For Professionals
Product Paper Size Add to Cart
Kleid Original Notebook - A5 - 2 mm Graph - Gray - White Paper Kleid Original Notebooks A5 Add Items to Cart
Maruman Mnemosyne HN188UA-05 Notepad Holder - A5 Maruman Mnemosyne Notepad Holders A4, A5 Add Items to Cart
Paper Sizes For Journalers
Product Paper Size Add to Cart
Midori MD Notebook Journal - A5 - Dot Grid Midori MD Notebooks A5, B6 Slim, A6 Add Items to Cart
Rhodia Webnotebook - A5 (5.5” x 8.25”) - Dot Grid - Black Rhodia Webnotebooks A5 Add Items to Cart
Paper Sizes For Travelers
Product Paper Size Add to Cart
Field Notes Pitch Black Memo Books - 3.5” x 5.5” - 48 Pages - Dot Grid - Pack of 3 Field Notes Memo Books Pocket Add Items to Cart
TRAVELER'S COMPANY TRAVELER'S notebook Starter Kit - Passport Size - Olive Leather TRAVELER'S COMPANY TRAVELER'S notebooks Pocket Add Items to Cart
Paper Sizes For Artists
Product Paper Size Add to Cart
Global Art Hand Book Kona Grey Drawing Pad - 6” x 8” Global Art Hand Book Kona Grey Drawing Pads 9 x 12 in, 8 x 10 in, 6 x 8 in Add Items to Cart
Maruman New Soho Series Sketchbook - B5 Maruman Soho & New Soho Series Sketchbooks B4 (ISO), B5 (JIS), B6 (ISO) Add Items to Cart
Stillman & Birn Zeta Sketchbook - Wirebound - 7” x 10” Stillman & Birn Sketchbooks 7 x 10 in, 7.5 x 7.5 in, 6 x 8 in, 5.5 x 8.5 in, Pocket Add Items to Cart
Paper Sizes For Comic Creators
Product Paper Size Add to Cart
Deleter Comic Paper - B4 - with Scale - 135 kg - 40 Sheets Deleter Comic Paper B4 (JIS) Add Items to Cart
Strathmore 400 Series Marker Pad - 9” x 12” Strathmore 400 Series Pads 9 x 12 in Add Items to Cart
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