This year marks the 100th anniversary of the A4 paper size standard – a measurement so ubiquitous that we rarely stop to consider its origins or significance.
Yet this humble rectangle of paper has a fascinating history and some clever mathematics behind its dimensions.
Let’s explore the story of A4 and why it has become the world’s most widely used paper size.
The Birth of the A Series
The A series of paper sizes was first standardised in Germany in 1922 as DIN 476. However, the concept dates back even further to 1786, when German scientist Georg Christoph Lichtenberg first proposed the idea of a paper size with a 1:√2 aspect ratio.
This ratio is key to understanding what makes A4 special. Each size in the A series is exactly half the area of the previous size, while maintaining the same proportions.
So A4 (210 x 297mm) is half of A3, which is half of A2, and so on, up to A0, which has an area of exactly one square meter.
A4’s Global Adoption
While Germany pioneered the A series standard, it took several decades for it to spread globally. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) adopted it in 1975, helping to drive worldwide acceptance.
Today, A4 is the standard paper size in nearly every country, with only a few holdouts, such as the United States and Canada, still primarily using letter size (216 x 279mm).
Why A4 Works So Well
The genius of the A series lies in its proportions. The 1:√2 ratio means that when you fold an A4 sheet in half, you get two A5 sheets with exactly the same proportions.
This makes it incredibly easy to scale documents up or down between sizes without distortion.
Some key benefits of A4 include:
- Easy scaling between sizes (just multiply or divide dimensions by √2)
- Efficient use of paper – minimal waste when cutting larger sheets
- Standardisation makes filing, binding and storage simpler
- Works well for both print and digital documents
A4 at Springfield Papers
At Springfield Papers, we’ve been supplying A4 paper to businesses, schools and organisations for over 40 years.
Whether you need bright white copier paper, coloured paper for presentations, or specialty papers for art projects, we stock a wide range of high-quality A4 options to suit every use.
Our expert team can advise on the best paper choices for any application.
Looking to the Future
As we celebrate 100 years of A4, it’s worth considering what the next century might hold.
While digital technology has reduced paper usage in some areas, physical documents remain fundamental in many fields. The A4 standard seems likely to endure, continuing to provide a universal format that bridges the physical and digital worlds.
At Springfield Papers, we’re committed to sustainable paper sourcing and production. We work with mills and brands that prioritise responsible forestry practices to ensure A4 paper will be available for generations to come.
Whether you need a single ream or a pallet load, we’re here to supply all your A4 paper needs. Get in touch with our team today to discuss your requirements or place an order.
Here’s to another century of this brilliantly designed paper standard!