I don’t know how frequently this has happened to you, but I often find myself in need of a single piece of graph paper.  To further compound the problem, I sometimes need something other than the standard square grid type.  Thankfully, Web 2.0 has a tool for that, the Free Online Graph Paper/Grid Paper PDF page!This site has a wide variety of graph paper and other specialty types of ruled paper for drafting, accounting, music, drawing, etc.  The great thing (other than the cost, which is free!) is that these are generators, not static file downloads, so you can customize these papers to your needs, then download the result as a PDF file which can be used over and over.

Strengths:

• Many types of ruled paper from which to choose
• Not limited to graph papers
• Easy to use generators produce PDF files for download
• Free

Weaknesses:

• You may need to experiment with you PDF reader’s settings to get the desired result (view the tips section at the bottom of the graph paper page)
• PDF files generally require reader software to be installed on your computer to access them

Overall, this is a great tool if you find yourself needing a piece of graph paper or other specialty ruled paper in a hurry.  Depending on duplication prices, this may be a cost-effective way to create graph paper for your normal classroom needs.  The ability to create storyboards, music notation staves, and other ruled papers just increases the usefulness of this tool.

The generators are free to use, but the author will accept PayPal donations.  No user accounts or email addresses are required.  All you’ll need to make use of this service is an internet connected coomputer, PDF reader software, and a printer.  Optionally, a copy machine would be helpful as well.