There is a reason the paper airplane is everyone’s first origami memory — a single sheet, a few folds, and suddenly you have something that soars across the room. This little design keeps it classic and foolproof, so you can have a fleet ready in minutes. Whether you are entertaining kids or just need a quick break, few things are as satisfying as a plane that actually flies. Let us fold one and see how far it goes.

Way of folding

STEP 1. Fold the paper in half to mark the center crease, then fold the sides in so the edges line up.

STEP 2. Fold it so the corners meet.

STEP 3. Fold it so a corner pokes out.

STEP 4. Fold it in half.

STEP 5. Fold it down, leaving a small lip to hold.

STEP 6. Fold the wing down a little.

STEP 7. Spread it out flat.

STEP 8. Completion.

[Points of folding]

If it doesn’t fly well, try changing the size of the wings.

After folding a few of them, you’ll get a feel for how they should be sized to fly best.

When you throw it, a gentle, relaxed toss tends to fly better than throwing too hard.

If you launch it from a slightly higher spot, it will stay airborne for a surprisingly long time.