Earnings Per Share Attributable To International Paper Company Common Shareholders (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Reconciliation Of Earnings Per Share

A reconciliation of the amounts included in the computation of basic earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations, and diluted earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations is as follows:

In millions, except per share amounts	2012		2011		2010
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations	$	749	$	1,273	$	691
Effect of dilutive securities (a)	—		—		—
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations –assuming dilution	$	749	$	1,273	$	691
Average common shares outstanding	435.2		432.2		429.8
Effect of dilutive securities (a):
Restricted performance share plan	5.0		4.8		4.4
Stock options (b)	—		—		—
Average common shares outstanding  – assuming dilution	440.2		437.0		434.2
Basic earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations	$	1.72	$	2.95	$	1.61
Diluted earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations	$	1.70	$	2.92	$	1.59

(a) Securities are not included in the table in periods when antidilutive.

(b) Options to purchase 9.1 million, 15.6 million and 18.2 million shares for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively, were not included in the computation of diluted common shares outstanding because their exercise price exceeded the average market price of the Company’s common stock for each respective reporting date.