Short answer: Single-sided printing puts content on one side of each sheet, while double-sided (duplex) printing uses both sides. Double-sided halves the paper for the same document, so a 10-page file fits on 5 sheets. Use single-sided for official forms, applications and anything that will be signed, scanned or submitted, and double-sided for notes, study material, drafts and long documents you keep for yourself.

It’s one of the first settings you see when you print, and it’s easy to get wrong. Here’s what each option means, when to use it and how it affects what you pay.

What is the difference between single-sided and double-sided printing?

When should I print single-sided?

• Official forms and applications. Many offices, exam boards and banks expect one page per sheet, and it’s the safer choice when you aren’t told otherwise.

• Anything that will be signed or stamped. Each page needs to be easy to sign, and ink can show through to the other side.

• Documents that will be scanned or photocopied again. Single-sided pages go through scanners and copiers without anyone missing the back.

• Resumes and cover letters. Keep them single-sided and clean.

• College submissions with formatting rules. Project reports and assignments often specify one side only, so check the guidelines first.

When should I print double-sided?

• Notes and study material you’ll read and highlight yourself.

• Long PDFs such as guides, manuals and question banks, where half the sheets makes a big difference to weight and bulk.

• Drafts you’re printing to review, not to submit.

• Booklets and handouts where front-and-back printing looks natural.

Does double-sided printing cost less?

It always uses half the paper, but whether it costs less depends on how the shop charges. Many shops in India charge per printed side, so a 10-page document costs about the same either way and you simply get fewer sheets. Some charge per sheet or give a small discount for double-sided printing. Ask before you print if the price matters. For typical rates, see our guide to printing prices in India and our colour printout price guide.

What should I check before printing double-sided?

• Odd page counts. A 7-page document leaves the back of the last sheet blank. That’s normal.

• Page order. Make sure new sections or chapters don’t start on the back of a sheet if you want them on a fresh page; add a blank page in the file if needed.

• Flip direction. For normal portrait documents, choose “flip on long edge” so the back reads the right way up. Use “flip on short edge” for documents you turn over like a calendar.

• Thin paper. Heavy images or dark backgrounds can show through on ordinary paper.

• ID copies. For an Aadhaar or other ID card, the front and back are usually printed side by side on one page instead. Here’s how to print your Aadhaar card.

How do I choose single or double-sided when printing from my phone?

On most phones, open the print screen and look for Two-sided or Double-sided under the print options. At a self-service printing kiosk you choose single or double sided along with copies and colour before you pay, so check it before you confirm. Here’s our full guide on how to print from your phone without a printer.