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Staples.com® | Buying Guides | Writing Pads

How to choose the best writing pad.

Find the writing pad that will best suit your needs. Consider the rule line, perforation and chipboard when making your selection. View all pads.

Types of Rules

Legal

Legal

  • 11/32-inch spacing between lines
  • Ideal for people with large handwriting
  • The most popular rule for business, home and legal use
  • Sometimes referred to as "wide rule"
College

College

  • 9/32-inch spacing between lines
  • Ideal for average-size handwriting
  • The most popular rule among college students and the standard rule for college reports
  • Sometimes referred to as "medium rule"
Narrow

Narrow

  • 1/4-inch spacing between lines
  • Ideal for people with small handwriting
  • Allows for more writing per page

Types of Perforations

Micro

Allows for clean, easy sheet removal with no visible raw edge

Pinhole

Pinhole

Allows sheets, which may be folded back and forth, to remain secure on the pad

Slot

Slot

Provides a stable attachment to the pad with clean, easy sheet removal

Types of Backing

80 pt. Backing

80 pt.

Sturdy enough to write on; no desktop or padholder needed

60 pt. Backing

60 pt.

Versatile enough to go from your desk to a meeting

28-40 pt. Backing

28 - 40 pt.

Economical pad perfect for use with padholders