A paper fastener is an object used to hold pieces of paper together. Common paper fasteners include staples, brads, clips, and metalstaples. Staples are a U-shaped metal fastener that is inserted into the paper and bent to hold it in place. Brads are small metal pins with two or more prongs that are inserted into the paper and bent to hold it in place. Clips are metal or plastic objects that hold paper together by squeezing the edges of the paper. Metalstaples are metal fasteners that are inserted into the paper and bent to hold it in place.