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50 Ways to Improve Your Handwriting That Actually Work

Whether you need people to be able to read your handwriting professionally or just want to have neat handwriting for yourself, here are 50 tips to improve your handwriting instantly.

My top 10 tips for improving your handwriting:

• Adapt your letters to your natural handwriting motion
• Learn to maintain a rhythm

Use your natural slant

• Start using a fountain pen with a thick grip section
• Make sure you enjoy to write

Don't apply too much pressure

• Close the top of your letters

Embrace that your handwriting is always evolving

Write on blank instead of ruled paper, pick the right hand for you.

But there are a lot more quick wins to be had, so read on to get a lot more actionable tips you can implement straight away.

In this article:

Slow down your writing speed, pay attention to what letters you like and dislike to write, find out what motion your hand likes making, let your hand repeat the same motion, design letters that fit your natural handwriting motion, maintain a rhythm, focus on your spacing, use a dot pad for a while, learn these simple penmanship practices, make sure you actually enjoy writing, stop using ballpoint pens, get a thicker pen, relax your grip, write bigger to increase legibility, learn the ergonomically correct writing posture, adapt your line-height to your hand, keep moving forward, simplify your handwriting, reflect on your handwriting continuously, remove any directional changes in your hand, fix the tops of your letters, use a bolder pen at first, copy handwriting you admire, avoid getting overly self-conscious about your handwriting, invest in a good pen, use quality paper, use ink you like, understand the different aspects to good handwriting, understand your handwriting style, don't be afraid to do something badly, look at other people's handwriting, ditch what you don't like, relearn cursive handwriting, print out exercise sheets and practice, test ridiculous fonts using dafont, when you see a hand you like, practice it, try out new letters in your everyday writing, make writing a part of your everyday life.

This is a running list with every idea or tip I've ever encountered on handwriting improvement, so it might not be exactly 50 ideas. I'm constantly adding new tips and ideas, so if you want, you can bookmark this article and come back to it.

Most guides and tip lists out there focus on practice. Sure, you need plenty of practice. But there are so many other non-obvious tricks I can think of that are just a simple change in tools or perspective. The four main categories to improving your handwriting are, in my opinion:

• Change of behavior
• Changing tools
• Different perspective

Why perspective and tools, and so on?

Well, there is one ninja secret to improving your handwriting that only insiders know. And you need the right knowledge and tools to do it. It all boils down to this one thing:

The secret to improving your handwriting is writing more relaxed.

That's it. If you optimize for relaxation, your handwriting will improve dramatically.

I've tried to think of as many actionable tips to help with this I could possibly think of. Some of them you'll already know. But there will also be a lot of nuggets that are not obvious at all. Let's jump in.

Note: when I mention 'hand' , I'm trying to sound more sophisticated. Hand is the word insiders use for handwriting.

One of the main things holding me back in the early days was my fixed mindset on writing. I thought that I needed to be consistent above all. That's a major brake on any development, especially with handwriting.

Wanting to be consistent means you won't try out new things, which means you won't find better alternatives to what you're doing already, which means you won't improve.

The day I realized this was the day I started to make massive jumps in the quality of my hand.

A lot of bad handwriting starts with wanting to write too fast. When I learned to slow down my writing, from beneath my messy hand arose a pretty decent hand. A lot of bad things start with a lack of attention.

You also don't want to go to slow. If you're a very slow writer, that might be the cause of illegible handwriting. Attention is good, but obsession is bad. There's a certain momentum to writing that will help you keep consistent spacing and a consistent baseline. But writing without a hurry will definitely help your handwriting become more legible.

Before changing anything, I suggest to simply pay close attention during your normal, everyday writing.

What letters do you like to write? Which do you particularly dislike writing? Write both down. This will help you figure out how to change your handwriting over time.

Our hands like to make one motion, and despise making another. I've found that for me, I enjoy making the counter-clockwise circular motion. On the other hand, my hand dislikes drawing clockwise circles.

The best way to figure out what you like, is simply drawing connected circles, clockwise and counter-clockwise. Notice where you stumble. You could also use your notes on your favorite and least favorite letters.

Once you understand what motions your hand likes to make, you can adapt your handwriting—more on that in the next heading.

Once you know what motions you enjoy making, you can start changing your handwriting accordingly. I've found that I enjoy writing the most when all letters and movements are made up of the same circular, counter-clockwise motion.

I recommend analyzing your current handwriting and finding any letters you particularly dislike. Now check the motions you dislike. I'm guessing they overlap. You probably need to make a motion you don't really like to make in the first place. For 90% of the letters I disliked writing, that was the case.

Now we simply need to find a way to just make the motion we naturally like making.

For me, designing new letters really was the fun part. I really enjoy trying out new movements and trying to program them into my muscle memory. I'm a drummer by education, so that's what I did.

I suggest taking a sheet of paper and writing just one letter you dislike. Then, analyze which movements you've made.

Once you find the point of frustration in the letter, try to think of ways to change that movement. If you can't think of it, go through handwriting examples images online .

Picking new letters is a matter of 'tasting' them. Feel whether you enjoy its motion more or less than the old one.

You might have to repeat the letter a couple of dozen times before you can really tell. Since your hand isn't yet used to this new letter, it will always feel strange at first.

One of the most important aspects of good handwriting I never hear anybody talk about is rhythm . That's why I am not a great fan of writing in print.

To get the most natural and relaxed hand possible, you want to maintain a rhythm. Ideally, you make a continuous motion, without interrupting.

As with music, the most important thing is to keep on playing. Musicians know this: it doesn't really matter whether you mess up or play the right notes. As long as you maintain the rhythm, it will sound like music.

This also means your letters have to facilitate a continuous motion. Sharp angular motions, or ornamentations that require you to suddenly change direction, will disrupt the continuous motion, and frustrate your handwriting because of that.

However important rhythm might be, my handwriting is nowhere near a continuous motion. I'm still changing out letters every now and then. But that's okay! Over time you'll notice what strings of letters you've enjoyed, and I'll bet they used continuous motion.

Good musicians know what notes to play and how to play them. Great musicians know how to play the space in between the notes.

It's the same with handwriting. For the fastest results, focus on the spacing instead of the letters. There is nothing that improves legibility more than consistent spacing. I have a couple of very good penmanship exercises that will help you with that and are also fun and mesmerizing. I'll show them further on.

To hit home the idea of the importance of spacing, here's a verse of the Tao Te Ching called 'The Empty Space' :

Thirty spokes join in one hub In its emptiness, there is the function of a vehicle Mix clay to create a container In its emptiness, there is the function of a container Cut open doors and windows to create a room In its emptiness, there is the function of a room Therefore, that which exists is used to create benefit That which is empty is used to create functionality Verse 11, Tao Te Ching

If you're working on spacing, I can recommend using a dot pad for a while. These notepads have a dotted grid of 5mm instead of rules. It will help you with both horizontal and vertical spacing.

I use Rhodia's Dot pad, which you can get on Amazon.

Most exercises are boring, and, pardon my French, dumb. Sure, you need to practice. But most exercises are simulating situations that will never happen in real life, without adding anything really. One of those exercises I hate is worksheets where you repeat the same letter over and over. What's the point in that?

So whenever an exercise comes around that is fun to do, I jump on the opportunity.

One of my favorite penmanship exercises is this simple spacing exercise:

And then rotate the paper and fill in the margins with the same letter:

This exercise will help you develop better spacing, but also more consistent proportions. Each letter should be as high and wide as each spacing and vice versa.

You can practice with any letter, and it will help with spacing both horizontally and vertically a lot. It's also mesmerizing to look at, I think.

I picked it up on YouTube from gourmetpens, although I forgot which video exactly.

If you want to learn all my favorite penmanship exercises, you should read this article.

Some people make writing something holy, creating rituals and routines that need to be adhered to. I don't like that at all. I want to like to write by hand, so there are no rules.

I have pens lying around everywhere. I switch ink color whenever I feel like it, sometimes in the middle of a sentence. I have multiple notebooks, sizes, types, notepads, and so on, everywhere. I write horribly, so hastily and untidy no one will be able to read it. I write attentively when I feel like it. If I don't feel like writing, I don't.

I make sure I like to write. I don't want to impose fictional rules on myself.

This "strategy" has helped me to improve my handwriting over the years the most. If you like to write, you'll get used to writing a lot, and your handwriting will become more and more natural over time. Your handwriting will become more personal. And you'll love your handwriting, which will mean you'll love to write. And on and one the circle goes.

When you apply a lot of pressure, your hand will cramp up. To get the most natural hand, you'll have to write as relaxed as possible. It helps with consistency and spacing, but also with maintaining that rhythm we've talked about.

I used to work my pens (and paper) pretty hard. I pressed down quite hard, I imagine. No wonder: I used slim ballpoint pens.

Ballpoint pens might be more modern, that doesn't make them better. In many ways, fountain pens are still the superior pen. They require very little effort and write under their own weight. That's one reason, but there are plenty more.

I recommend at least trying out a fountain pen once. Most stationary stores allow you to test one out without any obligation of buying it. You can get yourself a very good fountain pen that will last you a lifetime for around $15.

If fountain pens are not for you, consider getting a premium ballpoint pen at the least. Those are also pretty affordable. Gel pens are also good. The wetter, the better.

Giveaway marketing pens might be cheap; they're also the worst writers in the world. However, a lot of people write with nothing else but cheap disposable, dry, skippy ballpoints.

Those ballpoints I mentioned have another big disadvantage: they're super slim. Slim pens are not good for your pen grip. Unless you have really tiny hands, a thicker grip section will be better for most people.

With a thicker section, your grip will loosen, and your hand will relax, which means better handwriting.

Anything you can do to loosen your grip will help with improving your handwriting in so many ways. You don't really know until you've tried a very wet, light, and easy-writing pen. Most people never experience this and learn to cramp up when writing. I think this is why most people don't like to write by hand.

However, nearly everyone I know that has learned to relax their grip enjoys writing by hand. It starts with a fountain pen; it ends with writing letters.

Another tip that really helps when first starting out with improving your hand is to write bigger. Larger letters help to relax your grip further, but it also programs your muscle memory. Making large motions will help with internalizing smooth movement.

Many people write tiny. Perhaps we think it's neater. However, graphologists (handwriting experts) think it is because of frugality: you don't want to waste paper. It could also mean you're timid and don't want to take up a lot of space. Whichever it is, it doesn't sound good.

Learning to take up space not only helps you relax your hand, but it will also help your overall posture and improve your confidence in your handwriting.

This is an obvious one that many people mention, so there might be something to it.

Your pen is an extension of your posture.

Sitting the right way will help with finding a more natural hand in seconds.

The correct posture is very simple:

• sit up straight with your shoulders relaxed
• your elbows should be in a natural, 90-degree angle facing outward slightly
• your wrist should be loose and straight
• do not rest on your wrist
• use your forearm to make large motions

Here's a good visual explanation in a video I've made:

I once read in a graphology book (the study of handwriting) that we naturally want to write at an angle. I don't know why, but that pleased me.

Nowadays, many people write in print to take study notes, and so on. Print is easy to read, but it forces you to right your letters while your body wants to write with a slant.

I recommend trying to find your natural slant and allowing it for a while. A natural slant is anything between 5 and 15 degrees.

I might overdo it: I turn the paper dramatically. It seems as if it rotates a couple of degrees more every year (almost at a vertical position now).

I've once searched for blank notepads for a week before ordering an entire box. I couldn't find any anywhere. It was quite disturbing.

'Why does this matter?' you ask.

If you have a higher hand than most people, you want to increase your line-height as well. Overlapping loops will become illegible very quickly. The quick fix is to adjust your line-height to your hand's height.

You want to choose a line-height where your loops don't overlap. It's either that or shortening those mouthwatering curls and ornamentations!

Since most journals and notepads are ruled nowadays, it can be difficult to use the right line-height. Everybody's handwriting differs, so the standard ruled paper doesn't apply to a lot of people.

The solution is finding good quality, blank paper to use. I love Rhodia Le R. It's great paper. It's all I use nowadays. Here's my proof:

It's a bit more expensive, but it's the single investment in your writing experience that will make the most difference for the smallest price. Check it out on Amazon.

We've already touched on keeping rhythm. In the same way, you want to keep the forward momentum going. This realization ties into a couple of other points I'm going to make further on. You don't want to look back, touch up, or judge your own handwriting while you're writing.

You can do all of that later.

For now, focus on keeping going, without getting frustrated. Your hand will become tidier over time, and there will be plenty of time to write like a superstar now that you're gaining experience.

The forward momentum and rhythm are the most important part. Your arm needs to get used to the fine motions you use when writing by hand. Your body will figure it out automatically, as long as you keep writing.

You doctors out there know what I mean (I suppose a lot of physicians read my website). Simplify your hand until only a horizontal line remains.

Well, that might be a bit much, but we definitely want to keep simplifying our hand over time. As a young lad, I had these horrible Munk-like ornamentations that made absolutely no sense in the larger scheme of things.

In order to simplify, you want to analyze your handwriting every now and then and check for unnatural loops, hooks, curls, and ornamentation.

Keep ditching what you don't like and what looks unnatural.

I've ditched a lot of letters and stylizations, even once I've added through painstaking repetition. If it doesn't fit, ditch it.

If your entire hand is in a counter-clockwise circular motion (like mine), you don't want to loops and ornamentations that crudely oppose that direction.

The most common example of this are hooks. Graphologists think that handwriting with a lot of hooks is the sign of a madman or serial killer. Don't be suspect: ditch the hooks.

Apparently, people recognize letters by their tops. If you make sure your tops are on point, your handwriting will be much more legible.

The two largest and easiest improvements are closing the tops, and using clear connections between letters if you write in cursive.

As a drummer, there was this training concept we used all the time. When I rehearsed for shows and new songs, I started out slowly, making very large and dramatic motions.

I used the full range of motion.

Once my muscles understood the motion, I made it smaller and smaller until it became tiny.

You want to do the same thing with your handwriting. Start big, end small.

If you have trouble making larger motions, use a pen with a broader nib . This will force you to make large movements. I switch between broader and finer nibs all the time, and my handwriting increases or decreases in size accordingly.

Larger motions will help you circle in on finer motions. By training your muscle memory in a big way, you'll get better at small dramatically. It's the best way to program your muscle memory.

If you see something you like, copy it. This could be individual letters, connections, ornamentations, and so on.

I've copied capital letters especially since they can be so hard to get to feel right. But some people find cool ways to connect two specific letters, and it's fine to copy them.

For one, there is no copyright protection for handwriting. Secondly, your entire hand is already copied from others' examples anyways. So go ahead and steal whatever your heart desires.

With all this talk of improvement, it's hard not to get super self-conscious when you write. Here's an important warning: try not to think about it. Remember, our goal is to write as relaxed as possible. This will automatically lead to better handwriting.

If you try to force improvement, you'll only cramp up, and cramping will lead to nothing but typographic disaster.

One of the simple tool changes I'd make is investing in a good pen if you haven't already. I recommend something that writes easily, whatever that means for you.

For me, and most others, this means a pen with a thick grip section that is not too heavy, and writes effortlessly. In other words, any fountain pen over $15.

I already touched on this, but I want to mention it separately as well. Good paper will help your writing regardless of the pen you use.

Most people use cheap copier paper. That's 60 grams paper that feathers like crazy (feathering is when the ink runs). It's rough and very textured.

It works okay with ballpoints, as ballpoints are designed to work on cheap paper. You'll notice the difference when you use a fountain pen, though.

You can get all kinds of paper. I prefer something very smooth. Rhodia's Ivory Satin paper (90gr/m2), for example.

Some brands that have great paper:

• Clairefontaine
• Tomoe River

If you've never touched a fountain pen, this sentence will make no sense to you. If you use a fountain pen, however, you probably have boxes full of ink bottles at home.

Here's my modest stock:

If you like to write, you'll write more, and your handwriting will improve.

I don't really believe in soul-crushing practice for practice's sake. I'd rather enjoy writing so much that I'll pick up a pen more often naturally.

So use stuff you like to use. It sounds so simple, but so few people actually do it.

'But well, it all costs money.' Sure, but I think that my entire collection of ink cost me about 60 bucks. For a tenner, you could get five ink samples, which will get you through a year of writing. People overestimate what fountain pens cost because they look expensive and decadent.

Try it out. Use stuff you like. See where it takes you.

After all this talk about mindset and tools, let's talk about the most discussed aspect. Technique. So technically, what are we actually trying to improve?

Good handwriting consists of:

• consistent spacing
• closed tops
• clear connections
• a clear baseline
• the right line-height
• simple and natural letters

As you can see, spacing is as much a part of it as the letters itself.

There are multiple styles of handwriting. To understand your own style better, let's quickly go over the styles there are. There are basically three styles:

• print - unconnected
• cursive - connected
• calligraphic - ornamental

Most people nowadays write in cursive, since it's the most legible. It's also the most impersonal. It's the human printer, in a way:

It's also the one handwriting style that is perfect for fine liners, markers, technical pens, and ... ballpoints . Dry pens will skip on, and connecting letters while applying pressure isn't great.

Cursive, however, is the fastest way to write, if you become good at it. And it's the most personal.

Personally, I write in a hybrid print/cursive style, with some letters connected and some separate.

Knowing what you're actually trying to strive for is crucial in improving. Do you want to write in a pure cursive? Then, it's back to basics. You'll have to print out exercise sheets you used to use in grammar school.

Knowing who you'll write for and in what context is also critical in picking the right hand. Will you write longhand in your journal for you to read and no one else? Or will you fill out inventory forms at work?

Typically, I'd recommend cursive for personal handwriting and print for professional handwriting.

Knowing what tools you'll use is the last essential part of picking the right style. If you plan to use fountain pens, it's worth (re)learning cursive. It's just a perfect match. On the other hand, if you'll be using pencils, you might want to write in print.

Improving anything is a delicate mix of trying your best and not caring about doing it badly. If we focus too much on trying hard, we'll get frustrated before achieving meaningful results. So consider doing it badly at first and not caring too much.

The best way to find new ideas for your own handwriting is by looking at other people's hand. I've found numerous ideas for capitals, and I recently copied sbrebrown's lowercase 'z' - which is the classic cursive z:

Where do you find examples? Apart from Google Images (which is not a bad place to start), you can:

• check old letters from people you admire
• watch fountain pen review videos on YouTube
• watch study videos
• check graphology books and websites

But the best way to collect handwriting examples is by writing letters to friends and family and collecting their responses.

Sometimes I program new letters into my muscle memory, only to find I still don't like them after a couple of months. Generally, those new letters are better, but not always.

If a letter or connection continues to frustrate me, I will be on the lookout for a replacement. And as soon as I find it, I'll just start replacing the old with the new design in my everyday writing.

I don't really practice. I just try to remember to use the new letter. I don't care if it doesn't look good at first.

When I got into high school, I only wanted to ditch those child-like connected letters from grammar school. So I stopped connecting my letters altogether. I know, I was a rebel.

If you don't know cursive already - or have ditched it as I did - I recommend trying to relearn it. For me, it has sped up my writing tremendously. It also simply was the best hand for me. I already wrote in a cursive manner, with a slant and a lot of forward momentum. When I started using fountain pens again, there just wasn't any reason not to write in cursive. It is the appropriate style for me.

Relearning it has been easier than I thought. I still don't like the s-ess, so I use my adolescent s instead. I'm nowhere near a pure cursive, and I might not want to, but ignoring my false pride and seeing cursive for what it is (a great handwriting style for fast writers), has helped my handwriting tremendously.

Writing on blank paper will seem a bit counterintuitive, I know. Most people assume you'll need more tools, not less, when trying to improve. But I think ruled paper is responsible for lazy writers all around the world.

Joking aside, I've found that writing on blank paper for a decade has really improved my handwriting. How? Well, it forces you to develop your own baseline. Taking off the side wheels and relying on your own judgment will improve the firmness of your handwriting over time. It's amazing how straight you can write freehanded, really.

Also, if you have a higher-than-average hand, you can now use your own line-height. No more overlapping loops.

I hate exercise sheets and never use them. I get bored with them quicker than a dog will eat an ice cream. That's my opinion, and now it's out of the way.

For a lot of people, however, exercise sheets are a great way to improve their handwriting. If you are unlike me (undisciplined and unfocused), you might actually appreciate the repetition.

Repetition is good. It's really good. As a professional drummer, I was all about repetition for a couple of years. It's the only way to train your muscle memory properly. But there's a reason I was constantly broke while gigging as a drummer. I'm no good at repeating something over and over again.

If you are, however, here is a website where you can print out your exercise sheets for free.

It's fun to go through Dafont or any other font library and just pick some ridiculous font and try to replicate it. There are loads of ideas to be found in those libraries.

I don't recommend forcing yourself to use an entirely foreign style. Your handwriting should be an amalgamation of your character. But picking elements, single letters, or ideas for connections or ornamentations is a great way to improve your handwriting over time.

In order to find elements you like better, you will have to imitate others' hand. Whenever I encounter an element I like, I quickly practice it a dozen or so times on a straying piece of paper. It's the only way to tell whether something feels better than what you did originally.

If it does feel better, however, I try to remember using it throughout my everyday writing. My journals are filled with obvious transition periods where I frantically switch between letters, trying to remember to use the new one.

However, it always lands. I'm actually surprised how quick you get at implementing a new letter once you get comfortable with changing up your handwriting. I just recently learned an entirely new 'z' (the one I mentioned before) in just a week or so.

This was a letter I initially thought would take me months to master, simply because it was such an odd shape.

Now for the most obvious of lists on improving your handwriting. I'm actually proud I've postponed this tip for so long.

You want to practice a lot. But practice doesn't have to mean repeating those boring worksheets over and over again. A better way is to take things you'd do anyway, but now take out your favorite pen and write them by hand.

Here are some ideas and things I write by hand nowadays:

• Write your grocery lists by hand
• Write notes to your friends or spouse
• Keep a journal
• Write out business ideas
• Copy recipes you like (tip: use waterproof ink)
• Plan your calendar by hand

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How To Improve Your Handwriting (+FREE Worksheets)

This post and the photos within it may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something through the link, I may receive a commission at no extra charge to you.

When someone asks, “How can I improve my handwriting?” they usually look for a few things they can easily implement to make their writing look more legible or presentable.

The problem is that handwriting is a habit deeply ingrained in both the mind and the muscles, so even a tiny change can be difficult to implement.

I’ve always taken a different approach to helping people with their handwriting, one that might require a little more time and commitment but gives the writer all the tools they need to take their handwriting as far as they like.

The approach is to first understand how handwriting works on a basic level, then apply that understanding to improve your own handwriting.

Understanding the Fundamentals of Handwriting

If you don’t understand how handwriting works fundamentally, you will always feel lost when trying to improve your handwriting, even if you are following the advice of a handwriting expert.

When you understand how handwriting works, everything becomes clear. You will know things like:

• Why the letters have different heights
• Why the letters are spaced the way they are
• Why the letters have different forms yet work together to create a cohesive script
• The way to position your body, hold the pen, and position the paper for optimal writing
• Why someone’s handwriting is more legible or visually pleasing than another’s

I hope you can see that if you understand all the above, improving your handwriting will be a walk in the park.

So your first task, if you want to improve your handwriting, is to learn the fundamentals of handwriting.

The best way to do this is to study a proven handwriting system.

Any time-tested system will do. I recommend American Cursive because it is a beautiful, legible script.

I also have a  free course that will teach you everything you need to know  about American Cursive.

Regardless of what script you choose, by studying one, you will learn how handwriting works, and you will be able to apply what you’ve learned to any other script, including your own chicken scratch.

By studying a script like American Cursive, you will learn these important concepts and more:

• Body position ,  pen grip , and  paper position
• The grid , or how the lines printed on the page (and the imaginary ones that aren’t) work with the letters
• How to write across the page
• How a script builds on  fundamental strokes  and repeats those strokes throughout the alphabet

If you want a taste of how important the fundamentals are, I suggest you watch the video below titled “The Cursive Grid,” which is from my  free online cursive course .

What Do You Want Your Handwriting to Look Like?

When you study American Cursive or any other script, you will learn to write in that style, but that doesn’t mean your personal handwriting needs to look exactly like the script you are studying.

That said, traditional scripts like American Cursive were successful for a reason.

They evolved out of the culture in which they were created and have stood the test of time as legible, visually pleasing scripts.

You cannot go wrong by trying to emulate a traditional script, and no matter how hard you try, your script will always have personal quirks that are unique to you.

The great thing about studying a traditional script is that you have a very clear and defined vision to work towards.

Every traditional script has an exemplar, which is the ideal letterforms that comprise the script.

With an exemplar in hand, you know exactly what your goal is, and you can always compare your handwriting to the exemplar to see where you are falling short.

If you want your handwriting to have its own unique flavor, I suggest you at least find a traditional script to use as a base.

That way, you can take the exemplar from a traditional script and modify it to make it your own, which is much easier than creating an exemplar from scratch.

Of course, you can create one from scratch too, but it takes a lot of time to do it right, and the result won’t be as good unless you understand handwriting at a high level.

Let’s be clear, you need an exemplar. Without an image of the ideal letters, you will wander aimlessly and waste a lot of time while making little improvement.

Whether you are studying from the exemplar of a traditional script or your own unique creation, you will be armed with everything you need to improve your handwriting.

You’ve Done the Work, Now Apply It

I know, I know.

You’ve already done a lot of work.

Learning the fundamentals of handwriting is no small task and creating your own exemplar takes time too.

The good news is that your handwriting will already look much better by this point.

That’s because your understanding of handwriting is naturally solving the problems with your handwriting without you having to do anything except pay attention while you write.

Of course, there are more active things you can do to improve your handwriting at this stage.

When you understand the fundamentals, improving your handwriting is a straightforward process –

• identify errors,
• and figure out why you are making the errors.

If you can see an error in your writing and then understand exactly why you are making that error, resolving the error is pretty easy.

Here’s an example.

As you can see, our friend’s handwriting here is very cramped in the horizontal direction.

Fixing this is pretty easy because he’s done the work and understands the basics of handwriting.

Our friend was able to fix this problem because he understands that spacing is controlled by the movement of the hand and that movement is limited by the hand’s range of motion.

He is trying to write too many letters without picking up his hand and moving it to the right.

The problem was easily solved by pausing more often to move the hand and continue writing with proper spacing.

This is just one example of how improving your handwriting works when you have an understanding of the fundamentals.

You have all the tools to identify, analyze, and resolve issues with your handwriting.

How much you want to improve your handwriting is up to you.

As you improve your handwriting, the errors in your writing will become less noticeable to the average person.

However, you will see more and more errors in your writing.

This is because when you are studying handwriting, you are training your eye to see errors, which allows you to see the more subtle errors that previously escaped your eye.

The only way to end this process is to become satisfied with your handwriting or keep working on it for the rest of your life.

Should you become satisfied with your handwriting, writing regularly will maintain it.

Download free handwriting PDF worksheets

In my free online course, Consistent Cursive, you’ll learn all the needed fundamentals to improve your handwriting. In the download section you’ll also be able to download free handwriting worksheets, which include –

• Lowercase letters + variations
• Capital letters + variations
• Numbers & Symbols
• Various blank grids for practice

You can check them out on my site by clicking the button below.

Quick recap + final words on improving your handwriting

There you have it, friends.

If you’re genuinely looking to improve your handwriting, this is the best approach you can take. 

Little tips and tricks may marginally improve the look of your handwriting.

However, learning the fundamentals will allow you to take your handwriting to a new level. 

Here is a quick recap of the whole article – 

• Understand the basics of handwriting
• Pick and study a proven handwriting system, e.g., American Cursive
• Always practice using an existing exemplar
• It’s easier to use an existing exemplar than to create one from scratch
• You’ll be able to apply the knowledge to other writing styles as well (even create your own)
• Once you understand the fundamentals, you’ll be able to correct your mistakes
• The improvement of your handwriting will depend on how much time and effort you put into it

Once again, be sure to check out my free online course that will teach you everything you need to know about American Cursive. 

Now let me ask you something – What has been your biggest struggle with improving your handwriting?

Let me know by dropping a comment below 👇

Thanks for reading!

About the author

David has been studying traditional American penmanship since 2016. He has created over 100 videos about penmanship on  YouTube  and his exemplar for business penmanship was featured in the 25th edition of the Speedball Textbook. You can take his free cursive course online at  consistentcursive.com .

8 thoughts on “How To Improve Your Handwriting (+FREE Worksheets)”

Hi, David. I am left handed, and my great niece (10 years old) has asked me to help her with her penmanship since she is also left handed. We will work together this summer. Do you have any tips for us?

Hi! Would you be so kind to point me in the good direction to find a similar set of tools/courses but for PRINT handwriting?

Maybe youtube? Not sure to be honest.

Finally a true web 🕸 All others are like goat at handwriting themselves

I can’t thank you enough; and it’s free! I’ve been struggling with this for some time now and I think you have provided an answer for me.

Sometimes “thank you” is simply too inadequate but right now it’s all I have.

Thank you Jerry

Thank you for the nice comment, Jerry. Super glad to hear you like the article 🙂

I am really happy with the online tutorials and very interesting to see more,learn more.Thanks

Thank you so much for the feedback, Stanley 🙂

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How to Improve Your Handwriting in a Month

Last Updated: November 28, 2023 References

This article was co-authored by Courtney Copriviza . Courtney Copriviza is an Elementary School Teacher based in Maui, HI. Courtney specializes in elementary education, classroom management, and social and emotional development. She holds a BA in Communication with a minor in Urban Education and an MA in Teaching from Santa Clara University. Courtney has also taught high school in Madrid, Spain. She is a member of Kappa Delta Pi International Honors Society in Education. This article has been viewed 55,624 times.

Handwriting is more than just a method of communication. It is an expression of your identity. In order to improve your handwriting in as little as 30 days, you will need to create a personalized improvement plan, practice daily, and work to refine your posture and technique. If you can dedicate 25 focused minutes per day to your handwriting practice, you can make noticeable improvements in about one month.

Creating Your Improvement Plan

• You might visit https://studenthandouts.com/handwriting-worksheets/ to download worksheets.
• You can also visit https://www.softschools.com/handwriting/alphabets/ for worksheets.
• If you’d prefer, you can purchase a handwriting workbook, such as Write Now by Barbara Getty and Inga Dubay.

• The shapes of your letters
• The slant of your words (and whether or not it is consistent)
• The spaces between letters and words
• The size of your letters
• The alignment of your writing (moving upward or downward; overlapping with other words)

• Letters that are squished together
• Letters that are too far apart
• Letters that are difficult to read
• Too sharp of an angle to your letters

• Google fonts

• It can be helpful to do this at the same time each day, so that you form a habit.
• If other people try to interrupt this time, explain that this is important to you.

Practicing Daily for One Month

• This should take 15–20 minutes.
• If it takes you a bit longer, that’s OK. Just do as much as you can, and don’t rush.

• Once you have refined your letters into the shapes you like, work on maintaining consistent letter forms.
• Spend around five minutes per day on your alphabet.

• Spend around five minutes per day on this.

• Start a bullet journal
• Create a handwriting Instagram page
• Find a penpal and write letters
• Copy down inspiring quotes or song lyrics

Improving Your Writing Posture and Technique

• Keep in mind your work surface. A sturdy desk or table will allow you to maintain better posture and to write better.

• Repeat on the other side to maintain balance.

• Dynamic tripod
• Dynamic quadrupod - holding the pen between the tip of your second finger and tip of your thumb, allowing it rest against your third finger
• Lateral tripod - holding the pen between the tip of your first finger and the back of your thumb, wrapping your thumb around
• Lateral quadrupod - holding the pen between the tip of your second finger and the back of your thumb, wrapping your thumb around

• Vertical lines
• Diagonal lines
• Semi-circles

• It can help to start writing with a marker or crayon to refine your big, bold letters.

Expert Q&A

• If you are left-handed, purchase pens with fast drying ink. This will reduce smearing. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://creativemarket.com/blog/improve-handwriting-challenge
• ↑ https://www.smashingmagazine.com/2008/04/beautiful-handwriting-lettering-and-calligraphy/
• ↑ https://bulletjournal.com/how-to-improve-your-handwriting/
• ↑ Courtney Copriviza. Elementary School Teacher. Expert Interview. 18 June 2021.
• ↑ https://ajot.aota.org/article.aspx?articleid=1851631

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6 Simple Steps to Improve Your Handwriting as an Adult

So, you’ve decided it’s time to improve your handwriting, eh? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Whether you’re hoping to impress your boss with your polished penmanship or simply want to make your grocery lists more legible, we’ve got you covered with these six simple steps to improve your handwriting.

First things first, let’s talk about why improving your handwriting is worth the effort. Not only can better handwriting make a positive impression in professional settings, but it can also boost self-confidence and make writing more enjoyable! Plus, who doesn’t love showing off their skills with a fancy signature?

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. These handwriting improvement techniques are easy to incorporate into your daily routine and will have you scribbling like a pro in no time.

Ready to get started? Let’s go!

Table of Contents

Handwriting Improvement Tips for Adults

You’re not alone if you feel like your handwriting is stuck in middle school mode. But don’t worry, there are plenty of ways to improve your penmanship as an adult. Here are some handwriting improvement tips just for you:

Avoid the Death Grip

Are you holding your pen too tightly? It could be slowing down your handwriting and making it harder to read. Try holding the pen gently between your fingers instead of clenching it in a fist.

Use the Right Paper

Believe it or not, the type of paper you use can make a big difference in how your writing looks. Experiment with different types of paper to find one that works best for you. Hint: smooth, lined paper tends to be the best choice for most people.

Are you rushing through your writing? Taking a little extra time to form each letter and word can make a big difference in the quality of your handwriting. Slow down and focus on precision.

Try Handwriting Exercises

Just like any other skill, practice makes perfect. Try handwriting exercises to strengthen your hand-eye coordination and improve your muscle memory. Here’s an easy one to start with:

Switch Up Your Writing Tools

Have you been using the same pen or pencil for years? Switching up your writing tools can help you find one that feels more comfortable and easy to use. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Find Your Own Style

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to handwriting. Don’t worry about trying to copy someone else’s style. Instead, experiment with different techniques until you find what works best for you.

With these handwriting improvement tips , you’ll be well on your way to writing like a pro. Happy writing!

Practice Makes Perfect: Handwriting Exercises to Try

Ready to put pen to paper and start improving your handwriting? Here are some fun, engaging exercises to try:

Letter Formation Exercises

Sentence writing drills.

• Write out your favorite quotes or song lyrics, focusing on legibility and consistency.
• Practice writing full sentences without lifting your pen off the paper. This exercise will help with fluidity and pen control.

Journalling or Copywork

Choose a short passage from a book or website and copy it down by hand. This exercise will help you improve your handwriting while also improving your reading comprehension.

Remember, these exercises are about progress, not perfection. Keep track of your improvements and celebrate your successes along the way!

Overcoming Handwriting Challenges: Common Issues and Solutions

Handwriting improvement can be a challenge, especially for students and kids. There are several common handwriting issues that many people face, such as poor letter formation, inconsistent spacing, and illegibility. The good news is that these issues can be overcome with the right techniques and tools.

Letter Formation

One of the most common handwriting issues is poor letter formation. This can make your writing difficult to read and may cause frustration when you try to convey your thoughts effectively. To improve your letter formation, try the following techniques:

• Use handwriting worksheets to practice writing letters
• Write slowly and carefully, paying attention to the shape of each letter
• Use lined paper to help guide your letter size and spacing

By focusing on the proper formation of each letter, you can make your writing more legible and improve your overall handwriting.

Inconsistent spacing between letters and words can also be a common problem when trying to improve your handwriting. This can make your writing look messy and may cause confusion when trying to read your work. To overcome spacing issues, try these tips:

• Use graph paper to help guide your spacing
• Practice writing words slowly, making sure each letter is spaced evenly
• Take breaks while writing to assess your spacing and adjust as necessary

With practice, you can train your hand-eye coordination to create consistent and even spacing in your writing.

Illegibility

Illegibility can be a frustrating issue for both the writer and the reader. Poor handwriting can make it difficult to convey your thoughts and ideas effectively. To improve your handwriting and make it more legible, try these techniques:

• Write in print rather than cursive to make your writing clearer
• Use a pencil grip to help control your writing angle and pressure
• Practice writing slowly and carefully, making sure each letter is clear and distinct

By taking the time to slow down and focus on each letter, you can improve the legibility of your writing and make it easier to read.

Handwriting Improvement for Kids and Students

If you’re a student or a parent trying to help your child improve their handwriting, it can be a challenging process. It’s important to keep in mind that improvement takes time and practice. To help with the process, try these tips:

• Encourage your child to practice their handwriting regularly
• Use fun handwriting worksheets and games to make learning more enjoyable
• Provide positive reinforcement and praise for improvement

By making handwriting practice fun and engaging, you can help your child stay motivated and develop better handwriting skills.

Handwriting improvement is a journey, and it’s important to approach it with patience and a willingness to learn. By addressing common handwriting issues and practicing regularly, you can make significant improvements to your handwriting skills over time.

Tools of the Trade: Choosing the Right Writing Instruments

Let’s face it – writing with the wrong pen or pencil is like wearing the wrong pair of shoes. It just doesn’t feel right. Choosing the right writing instrument is essential for improving your handwriting. Here are some handwriting improvement techniques that involve selecting the right tools:

Pens vs. Pencils

While both pens and pencils have their pros and cons, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Pens provide a consistent flow of ink, making them great for cursive and script writing. Pencils, on the other hand, are ideal for practicing letter formation and getting feedback on your technique.

If you find that your hand gets tired or cramps up easily while writing, consider using a pen or pencil grip. These handy tools can help reduce fatigue and improve your grip, leading to more consistent and comfortable writing.

Paper Types

The type of paper you use can also impact your handwriting. Choose paper that is thick enough to prevent bleeding, but not so thick that it feels cumbersome to write on. Additionally, lined paper can help you maintain consistent letter heights and spacing.

Experimentation

Don’t be afraid to try out different writing instruments to find the one that works best for you. Everyone’s handwriting is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Take the time to experiment, and you may be surprised at the difference it makes.

Remember, improving your handwriting is a journey, and choosing the right tools is just one part of the process. Be patient with yourself, and keep practicing. With these tips and techniques, you’ll be on your way to better penmanship in no time.

Maintaining Your Progress: Tips for Long-term Handwriting Improvement

Congratulations! You’ve put in the effort and seen significant improvement in your handwriting. But don’t rest on your laurels just yet. To maintain your progress, here are some tips:

While you may have achieved your initial goal of improving your handwriting, it’s important to set new ones to continue progressing. Set achievable goals, like writing a certain number of pages each day, to keep yourself motivated.

Practice Daily

The best way to maintain your progress is to make daily handwriting practice a habit. Incorporate it into your routine, even if it’s just writing a grocery list or journal entry. The more you practice, the more natural your improved handwriting will become.

Use Different Writing Instruments

Switch up the pens and pencils you use to keep things interesting. Trying out different writing instruments can also help you find the ones that work best for you and your handwriting style.

Take Breaks

Writing for long periods can cause hand fatigue and strain, leading to sloppy handwriting. Take breaks frequently to give your hand a rest and prevent strain.

Get Feedback

Ask a friend or family member to give you feedback on your handwriting from time to time. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement and keep you accountable for maintaining your progress.

Remember, improving your handwriting is an ongoing process. With dedication and perseverance, you can continue to see progress and develop beautiful penmanship that will make you stand out.

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The Power of Cursive Writing: Unlocking the Benefits of Handwriting Skills

In today’s digital age, where keyboards and touchscreens dominate our lives, the art of handwriting seems to have taken a backseat. However, there is a growing body of research suggesting that cursive writing, an elegant and flowing style of penmanship, holds significant importance in our cognitive and brain development. In this article, we will explore the landmark research conducted by George H. Early in 1973, titled “The Case for Cursive Writing,” and discuss why cursive writing remains an essential skill even in the year 2023.

Why is Cursive Writing Important?

Cursive writing serves as a crucial tool for communication, self-expression, and critical thinking. It goes beyond the mere act of putting words on paper; it involves a unique cognitive process that engages the brain in a way that typing or printing does not. By learning cursive, individuals develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and the ability to connect letters fluidly, forming a seamless whole.

Moreover, cursive writing has historical and cultural significance. It connects us to our past, allowing us to read and understand important historical documents, letters, and manuscripts. Imagine being unable to decipher the beautiful script of the United States Constitution or the intricate handwriting of Leonardo da Vinci’s journals. By preserving cursive as a cherished skill, we ensure that future generations can retain this cultural heritage.

“Cursive writing is not just a relic of the past; it is a skill that continues to shape the future of communication and cognitive development.”

How Does Cursive Writing Benefit Brain Development?

The act of writing in cursive stimulates multiple regions of the brain, fostering better learning, memory retention, and overall cognitive abilities. Research has shown that the intricate movements required for cursive writing activate the brain’s neural connections more effectively than other forms of writing, such as typing or block printing.

One study conducted by Indiana University found that when children were asked to generate ideas for a composition, those who wrote in cursive produced more words and expressed more complex thoughts compared to those who used print or typing. This suggests that cursive writing promotes higher-level thinking and aids in the development of creativity and language skills.

Furthermore, cursive writing can enhance focus and concentration. According to an article published in Psychology Today, the repetitive nature of forming cursive letters serves as a form of mindfulness, allowing individuals to focus their attention on the present moment rather than becoming distracted. This mindful engagement during handwriting can improve information processing and ultimately lead to better learning outcomes.

“Cursive writing is an exercise for the brain, promoting cognitive development, creativity, and concentration.”

Is Cursive Writing Still Taught in Schools?

With technology becoming increasingly prevalent in classrooms, there has been a decline in the emphasis placed on teaching cursive writing. However, the importance of this skill has not diminished. In the United States, the decision to include cursive writing in the curriculum is determined at the state level, leading to inconsistencies across the country.

While some states, such as California and Texas, have mandated the inclusion of cursive writing in their education standards, others have abandoned it altogether. This lack of uniformity raises concerns about the potential long-term consequences for students’ cognitive development and the preservation of essential cultural documents.

It is crucial to recognize the role of educators in fostering the practice of cursive writing. Teachers who integrate cursive writing into their lesson plans can effectively develop students’ fine motor skills, creativity, and critical thinking abilities. When students are exposed to cursive writing as an integral part of their education, they develop the foundational skills necessary for success in various academic subjects.

“Educators play a vital role in equipping students with the cognitive and cultural benefits of cursive writing.”

In conclusion, the research conducted by George H. Early in 1973 highlights the significance of cursive writing as a valuable skill, even in the year 2023. The art of cursive writing offers cognitive benefits such as improved brain development, enhanced creative thinking, and greater concentration. It also provides a link to our cultural heritage, allowing us to understand our past and connect with historical documents. While the teaching of cursive writing may vary across different states and education systems, it is crucial for educators to recognize its importance and incorporate it into their curriculum.

By embracing cursive writing and its multitude of advantages, we ensure that future generations possess the necessary skills to excel in a digitally driven world without losing touch with our rich history. Let us not undervalue the elegance and power of putting pen to paper and embracing the endless possibilities that cursive writing can unlock.

Source: The Case for Cursive Writing – George H. Early, 1973

Christophe Garon

September 21, 2023

Behavioral Science , Research

continuous education , handwriting , penmanship

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10 Easy Ways to Improve Your Handwriting

by Ryan Hart | Updated on February 14, 2019 | Post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

In this post you’re going to learn easy ways to improve your handwriting. If you follow these tips you’ll have perfect penmanship in no time.

I used these same tips to make my handwriting better in just a matter of days.

Ready to learn how to write neatly?

Let’s get started!

Use a Nice Pen

The first step in learning how to write nicely is to use a nice pen. No, it does not need to be an expensive or rare pen, just high quality.

Nice pens help improve your handwriting because they have more consistent ink flow and offer more control. However, there is not one perfect pen. You will need to experiment with a few until you find one that feels good in your hand and gives you the consistency to create identical letters every time.

Consider experimenting with ball point, fountain or fineliners at first. Each pen style will produce a different line thickness and give you a different feel.

Learn Correct Pen Grip

At this point in your life you probably don’t even give a second thought to how you hold your pen. But the experts agree that there are really only one or two correct ways to hold a pen.

The primary way is to hold the pen between your thumb and index finger with the body of the pen resting on your middle finger.

The next most common way is to hold the pen between your thumb and both the index and middle finger with the pen resting against your ring finger.

Whether you decide to change your pen grip or not, the most important thing is to hold the pen lightly. Your hand should be relaxed and comfortable with no tension.

Use Your Wrist and Arm

There are two main types of writers: those that write with their fingers and those that write with their forearm and shoulder. Your fingers should be used as a guide rather than to draw the letters.

If when you are writing for an extended period of time and your hand starts to get tired, then you know you are a “finger” writer. Using your shoulder and forearm will be much less tiring and give you a more consistent handwriting style.

To improve your handwriting focus on keeping your forearm, wrist, and fingers still and let your arm and shoulder move the pen.

As you are writing move the paper away from you as you move down the page. Do not move your hand into an uncomfortable position that will affect your handwriting.

Maintain Good Posture

When you are writing in your notebook or bullet journal it is important to be in a comfortable position and maintain good posture. Try to sit up straight and avoid hunching over your paper.

You should be able to move your arm and shoulder freely without anything on your desk getting in your way.

Having perfect posture can improve your handwriting, but staying relaxed and comfortable in your chair will yield the greatest results.

Take Your Time to Improve Penmanship

During my first year of architecture school we were required to hand draft all of our presentation drawings, or “blueprints” as some might call them. That means we were required to draw our floorplans by hand with lead holders rather than using a computer program and printer.

After we spent dozens of hours working on one drawing, the last step was to title the board.

Our professor encouraged us to just think about just one letter at a time to avoid making a critical mistake at the last minute. So if I was writing the word “FLOOR PLAN” my professor told me to say the letter “F” out loud as I was writing the first letter. Then “L,” “O,” “O,” “R,” etc.

Sure, I probably sounded ridiculous sounding my letters out loud, but this was an incredibly easy way to improve my handwriting. I suggest following a similar process if you want better handwriting as well.

As you write, think about or say each letter out loud. Focus on writing each letter as neatly as possible. Over time you will be able to write faster and still maintain your perfect handwriting. But in the beginning, taking your time will help you dramatically improve your handwriting.

Use Lined Paper

If you open a blank notebook or bullet journal and start writing, you are going to have less control over your handwriting than if you used lined paper.

Handwriting looks neat when lines of words are properly aligned and is consistent across the page. If you are trying to improve your handwriting the first step is to use lined paper.

In the event you need to write on a blank piece of paper, put a piece of notebook paper underneath to give you a guide or draw lines lightly with a pencil that can be erased when you are finished.

Use Proper Spacing to Write Neatly

What’s the difference between good handwriting and perfect penmanship?

The answer is proper letter spacing and alignment!

Each letter must be the same size and equal width apart. When writing in cursive your letters should maintain the same angle at all times.

When printing your letters respect the space above and below the letters when writing “g” or “t” or other tall letters. Do not let your letters touch the row above it and mainain a clean white space between lines.

Practice Each Letter of the Alphabet

If you want to make your handwriting better, you should practice writing each letter of the alphabet.

Yes, practicing your letters seems like something your third grade teacher might tell you. But I’m here to remind you that prefect handwriting is the result of deliberate practice.

Print out worksheets you find online or dedicate a few pages in your bullet journal just to practicing your letters.

Stick With One Style of Handwriting

One mistake I’ve made in the past when trying to improve my penmanship was constantly changing my handwriting style.

I would switch from cursive to printing and then to a lazy combination of both. It was like I was having a handwriting identity crisis.

I even experimented with different signatures!

Please don’t make this same mistake.

Pick one style of handwriting and continue to practice until it’s perfect. Then, if you are feeling abitious, you can move on to mastering calligraphy or other forms of handlettering.

Get Inspired By Pretty Handwriting

If there’s one thing I’ve learned on my journey to improve my handwriting, it’s that I’m my own worst critic. If you’re anything like me, there’s hope.

To avoid becoming discouraged with my handwriting I started looking for inspiration online. My handwriting wasn’t horrible to begin with but I knew it could be better. So I started searching for images of handwriting that I liked, but was still similar to mine.

These images gave me ideas on how to improve my current handwriting without having to change my handwriting completely. Then, I was able to focus just on improving the parts of my penmanship that were less than perfect and leave the good parts.

Now It's Your Turn

And now I’d like to hear from you.

Do you have neat handwriting?

Why do you want to improve your handwriting?

Either way let me know by writing a comment below right now.

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How to Improve Bad Handwriting (In 9 steps and 5 minutes a day)

January 12, 2023 - Updated on February 21, 2024

We are so used to typing on our computers and mobile phones, that it seems we might have forgotten how to write using pen and paper. Good news is that it is just a matter of practice, and that bad handwriting can be improved even in adulthood.

It’s also worth noting that some studies have linked traditionally-thought “messy” handwriting as a potential sign of intelligence !

The most important thing is to be patient and consistent and to practice daily.

Easy tips to improve bad handwriting

1. write slowly.

At the beginning, we suggest you write more slowly than you would, normally. That way, you will be able to examine your handwriting and see what bothers you the most. We spend far more time typing than actually writing, so it is completely normal that it takes you more time to write something than to type it.

In other words, the goal is legible handwriting, no matter how long it takes to complete a word or sentence. Time is often the most important factor when moving from messy handwriting to neat handwriting.

Note: If your handwriting is messy due to smudging (especially pertinent for left-handers, like my husband) you may need to get a pen with fast-drying ink or even wear a writing glove to help prevent smudging ink.

2. Identify your weak points

Write the alphabet on one sheet of paper to see what letters are causing you the most problems. Circle or underline them and then focus on improving those letters first. It is amazing how one or two letters can change overall look of the text you wrote.

3. Check the size and height of your letters

The most common issue people face is that some of their letters are too big and some are too small. That is the main reason why someone’s handwriting looks messy and illegible. Try to align your letters and make sure they have more or less same height and size. This small thing will improve your overall handwriting.

For instance, tall letters, like “t” “b” or “d” should be taller, but not bigger than others. Letter size for uppercase and lowercase letters may be a bit different, too.

Tip: Use worksheets and watch tutorials for the letters to help .

4. Choose the right pen and paper

We suggest you try more pens until you find the one that works for you the best. A comfortable pen comes through in your handwriting skills. Never underestimate investing in a good pen that can last for years.

When it comes to paper, at the begging you should use paper with lines , or lined paper, because it will help you make sure that all letters have same height and size. A piece of paper that has straight lines helps you  in a few ways including:

• Keeping your words and individual letters in a straight line
• Helps you make more progress during each handwriting session, since you’re able to fit more words on the page
• Avoids slanted or diagonal lines

5. Watch videos 

Use the benefits of modern technology to improve your handwriting. Look for videos of professional calligraphers writing and explaining how they’re writing. You can find a lot of them online for free, you just have to choose a style you like and then follow it. This might be the best way to improve your bad handwriting.

Here’s a great one:

6. Copy handwriting that you like

It can be a handwriting of someone you know, or a beautiful handwriting you found online. At the beginning, the easiest way to improve your handwriting is to copy the one you like. At first it probably won’t look even similar, but it will soon improve. Remember that the goal is to create your own handwriting style, but it is useful to copy someone’s else until you get the idea what do you want your handwriting to look like.

So, go ahead and get some handwriting inspiration before you put pen to paper.

7. Practice on handwriting worksheets

Even though it seems like an activity that kids do at school, you should give it a try! Find handwriting worksheets online, print them and than use them for practicing. It is one of the best ways to practice and improve your handwriting. The results are guaranteed.

8. Start writing a journal

As we already said, the most important thing is a daily practice. And is there a better way to do it than to start daily journaling? Journaling has many benefits, it helps to clear our mind and reduce stress. If you commit to daily journaling, you will get at least 5 minutes of practice every day! It might seem a little, but remember: it is important to be consistent and sometimes little steps are all it takes.

9. Be patient

This may be the most important tip. All good things take time, so be patient and don’t be too hard on yourself. You should never compare yourself to others, who have probably just practiced for a longer period of time than you. Give yourself some time and you will be amazed when you see the results you have achieved.

It is important not to give up if you do not see any improvement at first. Just stick with it and practice whenever you have some time. After a while your handwriting will improve, and you will be able to write notes and thank-you cards to the people you love, in your own, unique handwriting.

10. Take your time

Being patient over the long haul, until you improve, is important. But taking your time to actually write each letter is equally important. Slowing down and concentrating almost instantly improves your penmanship.

So, the next time you dedicate 10-15 minutes to write a journal or a letter – do not rush.

Write a shorter letter or journal entry. You never know; this one tactic can improve your handwriting enough to satisfy you!

Related Post :

Pennsylvania’s Cursive Legislation. Here’s where it stands in February 2024

What’s the Best Order to Teach Cursive Letters?

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• IAS Preparation
• UPSC Preparation Strategy
• How Good Handwriting Skills Can Boost Score In UPSC Exam

How Good Handwriting Skills can Boost your Scores in UPSC Exam?

If you are preparing for UPSC Civil Services Exam, you must be knowing that the exam is taken in pen-paper mode. Prelims are objective type while mains exam is descriptive type. In the UPSC mains , you have to write down answers within a certain word limit. You need neat and legible handwriting and yes, you should possess good answer writing skills. It is recommended that you write clearly if you are not doing it already.

Importance of handwriting for UPSC Mains

• You must know that good handwriting will not fetch you any extra marks, as for getting good marks quality of answer matters. But bad handwriting can cause loss of marks for sure (Even one mark can decide whether you make the cut or not in the UPSC exams. )
• Your writing should not make the examiner strain his eyes hard to read. The examiner is, after all, a human being and his mood while correcting is also important. Illegible handwriting may cause you to lose a mark or two in each answer.
• Good handwriting gives the impression of a person who is very sure of his/her knowledge. It also gives the impression that a person is very calm and composed. Haphazard writing may give the impression of a hurried and confused writer.
• It is true that the content of the answers is most important but the content should be decipherable to the examiner. He can be able to appreciate it only when he is able to read it properly. A valid, correct answer that the examiner cannot read will not fetch you marks.

How to improve handwriting

• Your letters should not be too small. Increase the size so as to avoid eye strain while reading.
• If you don’t have cursive handwriting, you should leave sufficient space between words. This will improve clarity in writing.
• It is generally advised to kids to have the correct grip for neat handwriting. As an adult preparing to take the UPSC civil service exam, it is difficult to change something as ingrained as your pen/pencil grip, but having the correct grip does ensure clean and readable writing.
• Sit with good posture. Relax your shoulders and arms.
• Use the right kind of pen. Use a pen that you are comfortable with to hold and to write smoothly. (It need not be a fountain pen as you were told in school) Avoid a pen that blotches since it greatly impairs readability.
• You need to write fast as the mains papers are quite lengthy, no doubt. But the trick is to strike a balance between speed and legibility. Don’t compromise one for the other.

Have bad handwriting?

In order to develop legible handwriting, try to practise the above-mentioned points. It is worth investing time in it. There is no use writing perfect answers if the examiner cannot read them!

Although it is difficult to make many changes in handwriting as an adult, the practice can make it happen. To clear the UPSC civil services exam, you must practice writing answers and when you do this, you should practise for good handwriting as well. It will definitely help you in scoring good marks in the mains exam.

If you already have clear handwriting, don’t bother too much about not having ‘beautiful’ writing. The idea is to make your answer paper readable, not decorative!

For more UPSC related preparation materials and articles, visit the links given below:

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Kelt Restaurant

Ratings and reviews, location and contact.

KELT RESTAURANT, Stavropol - Restaurant Reviews, Photos & Phone Number - Tripadvisor

• Service: 4.5