A Series
A3
Belonging to the ISO 216 standard, A3 paper size is a staple in the world of print and design. With dimensions of 297 x 420 millimeters or 11.7 x 16.5 inches, it offers ample space for various applications, from architectural drawings to large-scale advertisements.
As part of the A series in the ISO standard, A3's area is precisely one-half that of its predecessor, A2. This systematic sizing allows for seamless scaling between different sizes within the series - a feature that sets it apart from ANSI paper sizes used predominantly in North America.
A3 paper dimensions
Specs
| Format | in | mm | cm | pt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2A0 | 46.81 x 66.22 | 1189 x 1682 | 119 x 168 | 3370 x 4768 |
| A12 | 0.51 x 0.71 | 13 x 18 | 1 x 2 | 37 x 51 |
| 4A0 | 66.22 x 93.62 | 1682 x 2378 | 168 x 238 | 4768 x 6741 |
| A11 | 0.71 x 1.02 | 18 x 26 | 2 x 3 | 51 x 74 |
| A10 | 1.02 x 1.46 | 26 x 37 | 3 x 4 | 74 x 105 |
| A3+ | 12.95 x 19.02 | 329 x 483 | 33 x 48 | 933 x 1369 |
| A1+ | 23.98 x 35.98 | 609 x 914 | 61 x 91 | 1726 x 2591 |
| A0+ | 35.98 x 50.87 | 914 x 1292 | 91 x 129 | 2591 x 3662 |
| A6 | 4.13 x 5.83 | 105 x 148 | 11 x 15 | 298 x 420 |
| A5 | 5.83 x 8.27 | 148 x 210 | 15 x 21 | 420 x 595 |
| A4 | 8.27 x 11.69 | 210 x 297 | 21 x 30 | 595 x 842 |
| A3 | 11.69 x 16.54 | 297 x 420 | 30 x 42 | 842 x 1191 |
| A9 | 1.46 x 2.05 | 37 x 52 | 4 x 5 | 105 x 147 |
| A2 | 16.54 x 23.39 | 420 x 594 | 42 x 59 | 1191 x 1684 |
| A8 | 2.05 x 2.91 | 52 x 74 | 5 x 7 | 147 x 210 |
| A1 | 23.39 x 33.11 | 594 x 841 | 59 x 84 | 1684 x 2384 |
| A7 | 2.91 x 4.13 | 74 x 105 | 7 x 11 | 210 x 298 |
| A0 | 33.11 x 46.81 | 841 x 1189 | 84 x 119 | 2384 x 3370 |
A3's unique size makes it an ideal choice for documents requiring a larger format than standard A4. It's commonly used for presentations, diagrams, and layouts where clarity and impact are paramount.
Interestingly enough, when folded in half along its shortest side, an A3 sheet will fit perfectly into a C4 envelope - another testament to the harmonious design inherent in ISO paper sizes.
Whether you're drafting blueprints or designing a poster campaign, the versatility and practicality of A3 make it an invaluable tool in your creative arsenal.
Other Formats in the A Series
Interesting facts about A3
A3 Paper: Weird and Interesting Facts
1. Origin of A3 Size:
The A3 paper size is part of the ISO 216 international paper size standard, which was first introduced in Germany in 1922. It is derived from the original DIN 476 standard, which aimed to establish a consistent paper size system.
2. Dimensions:
A3 paper measures 297mm x 420mm or approximately 11.7 inches x 16.5 inches. It has an aspect ratio of √2 (1:√2), meaning that when folded in half, it retains the same proportions.
3. Half the Size of A2:
The A3 size is exactly half the area of its larger counterpart, A2 paper. When two sheets of A3 are placed side by side, they form an A2 sheet.
4. Commonly Used for Posters and Drawings:
A3 paper is often preferred for creating posters, architectural drawings, and artwork due to its larger surface area compared to standard letter-sized or A4 papers.
5. Widely Used in Education:
In many educational institutions worldwide, including universities and schools, assignments and projects are often required to be submitted on A3-sized sheets due to their versatility and ample space for content.
6. Popular Choice for Presentations:
A3 papers are commonly used during presentations as they provide enough room for diagrams, charts, graphs, or large font sizes that enhance visibility from a distance.
7. Compatibility with Printers:
A majority of modern printers can handle printing on both sides of an A3 sheet without any issues, making it convenient for duplex printing.
8. A3+ Size:
There is also a slightly larger variant of A3 paper known as A3+. It measures 329mm x 483mm or approximately 13 inches x 19 inches and is often used by photographers for printing high-quality photographs.
9. International Standardization:
The ISO 216 standard ensures that the aspect ratio and dimensions of A3 paper remain consistent across countries, facilitating easy compatibility and exchange of documents globally.
10. Environmental Considerations:
A3 paper consumption can be reduced by utilizing digital alternatives such as electronic documents, online collaboration tools, and efficient printing practices like duplex printing to minimize waste.
