Indian Series
Indian Foolscap
Indian Foolscap, a unique paper size that stands out in the realm of standard paper dimensions, is not part of any ISO or ANSI series. This distinctive format measures 216 x 343 millimeters, making it slightly larger than the A4 size commonly used worldwide.
Historically, the term 'foolscap' was coined from the watermark depicting a fool's cap and bells that was frequently used on this type of paper during the Middle Ages. However, Indian Foolscap has evolved beyond its historical roots to become a staple in India's academic and professional settings.
Indian Foolscap 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 |
The larger dimensions of Indian Foolscap offer ample space for detailed notes and comprehensive reports. Its unique size also makes it an excellent choice for legal documents where additional margin space is required for annotations or binding purposes.
Despite its regional name, Indian Foolscap has gained popularity beyond India's borders due to its practicality and versatility. It serves as an intriguing example of how regional standards can influence global practices in unexpected ways.
Indian Foolscap is more than just a paper size; it represents a rich history and continues to play an integral role in various professional fields today.
Other Formats in the Indian Series
Interesting facts about Indian Foolscap
1: Origin of the Name
Indian Foolscap paper gets its name from the watermark that was traditionally used on this type of paper. The watermark featured a fool's cap, hence the name "Foolscap."
2: Historical Importance
Foolscap paper has a long history and was widely used in India during the British colonial period. It played a significant role in administrative and legal documentation.
3: Size Variations
The original Foolscap size was approximately 13.5 x 17 inches (34 x 43 cm). However, over time, variations in size emerged, including smaller sizes like Brief Foolscap (8 x 13 inches) and Long Foolscap (8 x 16 inches).
4: Transition to Metric System
In India, the transition from imperial measurements to the metric system led to changes in paper sizes. As a result, Foolscap paper is no longer commonly used today.
5: Legal Documentation
Foolscap paper was often used for legal documents due to its large size and durability. It provided ample space for handwritten or typed content while maintaining legibility.
6: Watermark Identification
The presence of a fool's cap watermark on Indian Foolscap paper served as an authentication feature. It helped identify genuine documents and deter forgery.
7: Paper Quality
Foolscap paper was typically made from high-quality materials such as cotton or linen fibers. This ensured its longevity and resistance to deterioration over time.
8: Usage in Education
Indian Foolscap paper was commonly used in educational institutions for various purposes, including writing assignments, examinations, and record-keeping.
9: Transition to A4 Size
With the adoption of international paper standards, such as the ISO 216 series, A4 size (8.27 x 11.69 inches) has become the standard for most administrative and educational purposes in India.
10: Collectible Items
Due to its historical significance and limited availability today, antique Foolscap papers have become collectible items among enthusiasts interested in preserving cultural artifacts.
