OMR Printing Paper – Choosing the Right Paper for OMR Sheet Printing

OMR (Optical Mark Recognition) sheets are printed forms containing circles, bubbles, or boxes that candidates fill using a blue or black pen or pencil. These markings are later scanned and processed by OMR reading software.

A common misconception is that OMR sheets must be printed on thick paper for accurate results. However, with today’s advanced Addmen OMR Software and modern scanning technology, thick paper is no longer required for OMR sheet printing.

New Technology – Thick Paper NOT Required for OMR Sheets

With the new generation of OMR sheet reading software, paper thickness does not influence accuracy. The software reads the digital image of the sheet, not its physical thickness.

Standard white office paper (70–80 GSM) is perfectly suitable for OMR printing when using laser or inkjet printers.

Key Points:

Paper thickness has no effect on OMR reading accuracy.
Ordinary A4 white paper (70 GSM) works efficiently for both printing and scanning.
Available easily and economically in the market.
Both thin and thick paper can be used — depending on handling preferences.
Always use white, non-glossy paper to ensure clean scans.
For offset printing, a larger 18" x 23" sheet can be used to print four OMR sheets together, improving efficiency.

Why Thick Paper Was Used in Old OMR Systems

Earlier OMR technology depended heavily on printing precision, paper alignment, and scanner mechanics.

Older scanners physically pulled the paper with rollers, which could stretch, wrinkle, or tear thinner sheets.

Hence, thicker paper was used to:

Prevent damage from moisture or roller friction.
Maintain consistent alignment and stability during scanning.
Minimize distortion from paper bending or folding.

With modern image-based OMR reading systems, these mechanical limitations no longer exist — making thick paper unnecessary.

When to Use Thick Paper for OMR Sheet Printing

While not required, thicker paper (90–105 GSM) may still be preferred in certain conditions:

When OMR sheets are handled extensively by candidates or invigilators.
For long-term storage or transportation of sheets over long distances.
To provide a premium feel or higher durability for institutional branding.

In these cases, thick paper adds physical strength but does not affect scanning accuracy or OMR reading results.

Best Practices for OMR Printing Paper

Table
Factor	Recommendation
Paper Type	Plain, white, non-glossy paper
Thickness (GSM)	70–80 GSM ideal; 90–105 GSM optional
Paper Size	A4 standard (8.27" × 11.69"); 18" × 23" for offset
Printer Type	Laser or Inkjet
Color Printing	Optional; black & light color combinations allowed

Conclusion

In modern OMR technology, paper thickness is no longer a determining factor for accuracy or readability.

With Addmen OMR Software, users can print OMR sheets using regular A4 white paper, reducing costs and simplifying operations — without compromising quality or precision.

For institutions or exam centers that require additional durability, thicker paper can be used optionally. But for most users, standard 70 GSM laser paper delivers the best balance between cost, performance, and practicality.

Table

OMR Printing- Overview - Guidelines - Precautions - Methods
OMR Printing- Coloured - Barcode
OMR Printing- Paper - Cost
Download- Sheet Printing Guide