If a paper is folded and cut according to the given diagram, how will the paper appear after unfolding it?

Appeared in: ESIC Nursing Officer -2019 (Shift -1)

Explanation

The problem requires reversing the folding process and mirroring the cut at each step.
The first unfold is horizontal (downwards), which creates a mirror image of the cut below the original one.
The second unfold is vertical (to the right), which mirrors the two existing cuts to the other side of the paper.
This results in a pattern with four identical shapes, symmetrical about both the horizontal and vertical center lines, with the points of the cuts meeting at the center.

Option B: This option shows the shapes being rotated, not mirrored. When unfolding, the pattern is reflected as a mirror image across the fold line, not rotated.
Option C: This option only shows the result of the first unfold (horizontal). It fails to account for the second unfold (vertical), which would mirror these two shapes to the other side.
Option D: This option incorrectly orients the mirrored shapes. The points of the cuts should meet at the center of the paper, not point towards the outer corners.

Visual 1: Animation - A short animation showing the paper being folded, cut, and then unfolded step-by-step to reveal the final pattern. This would clearly demonstrate the mirroring effect at each stage.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Paper Folding and Cutting as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This question tests spatial reasoning and problem-solving skills, which are part of the General Intelligence section of nursing entrance exams.
While not directly related to clinical tasks, strong logical and spatial reasoning abilities are beneficial for nurses in understanding complex information, such as interpreting medical imaging or navigating hospital layouts.
What if the initial cut was made on the open edge instead of the folded corner? The final pattern would be completely different, with the cuts appearing along the outer edges of the unfolded paper instead of at the center.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully analyze the sequence of folds shown in the problem figure. Note the direction of each fold (e.g., right-to-left, bottom-to-top).
Next, observe the shape and location of the cut made on the fully folded paper.
To find the solution, work backward. Reverse the last fold first.
When you 'unfold' the paper, create a mirror image of the cut(s) across the fold line.
Repeat this process for each fold until the paper is fully open.
Compare your resulting pattern with the given options to find the correct match.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full ESIC Nursing Officer -2019 (Shift -1)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.