intentionally blank page

An intentionally blank page is a page that is devoid of content, and may be unexpected. Usually these pages often carry a notice, stating for example that "This page is intentionally left blank." The reason for these notices is to make it clear that the page is intentionally blank, rather than being a misprint or other unintentional error.

Uses for intentionally blank pages

Regardless of the apparent uselessness of these pages, they can in some circumstances be useful. In books of pieces of relatively short music that can span two to four pages often need to be arranged so the number of page numbers is minimized. For example, a three page work (starting on the left hand sheet) followed immediately by a two page work involves one page turn during each work. If a blank page immediately followed the three page work (on the right hand sheet), the two page work will span the left and right pages, alleviating the need for one page turn during the second work. Blank pages may also appear in written examinations, for example on the opposite side of the cover page. This page usually features a similar "this is a blank page" message to other blank pages, so that the person taking the examination does not worry that they have a misprinted form, thus alleviating possible stress. Sometimes intentionally blank pages placed at the end of books are often used to balance the folios which comprise the book (see bookbinding). Often these pages are completely blank with no such statement, or are often used as "Notes" pages, which serve a practical use.

Intentionally Blank Page

Uses for intentionally blank pages

See also