400 or 800 characters? Choosing composition paper
Middle primary uses 400 cells (20×20); upper primary and exams use 800. One A4 page of 400 cells is the most versatile.
Common layouts
400 cells: 20 columns by 20 rows, exactly one A4 page — the standard for grades 3–5.
800 cells: 20 by 40, usually two A4 pages or one B5 with tighter leading.
How to choose
Match the child's real output. Handing a beginner 800 empty cells discourages them; 400 is enough at grade 3.
For exam practice, use the real format — most regional exams use 800 cells, and practising at that length keeps the pacing familiar.
