Spatial exercise · ~2 min a run · free
Paper Folding
Fold, punch, unfold: where are the holes?
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Paper folding is a classic spatial-reasoning task. A square sheet is folded once or twice, a hole is punched through all the layers, then the sheet is unfolded. Work out the resulting pattern of holes.
About this test
About this test
What this test measures
This measures spatial visualisation and mental transformation: predicting the holes that appear when a folded, punched sheet is opened out. It tests stepwise visual reasoning under transformation.
How to improve your score
- Work backwards, unfold one step at a time rather than all at once.
- Each unfold mirrors the holes across the last fold line, double them carefully.
- Keep track of how many layers a punch passes through.
Good to know
Good to know
Unfold one crease at a time
Reverse the folds in turn, mirroring every existing hole across each fold line as you go. Each fold doubles the holes, so one fold gives two and two folds give four.Symmetry is your check
The final pattern is always symmetric across the fold lines. If an option breaks that symmetry, or has the wrong number of holes, you can rule it out without finishing the unfold.
Frequently asked questions
How many holes result?
How many holes result?
Each fold doubles the hole, so one fold gives two holes and two folds give four. The holes are mirror images across the fold lines.
What is the trick to unfolding?
What is the trick to unfolding?
Reverse the folds one at a time. Each unfold reflects every existing hole across that fold line, so the pattern stays symmetric.
Why is it used in selection?
Why is it used in selection?
It measures spatial visualisation without any words or numbers, isolating the ability to transform shapes in your mind.
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