Handwriting Styles

A handwriting style is the way in which a person writes using a pen, pencil or other writing instrument, and it can be unique to each individual person. They generally fall into three different categories: there are print, pre-cursive and cursive handwriting styles

What are Handwriting Styles?

A handwriting style is the way in which a person writes using a pen, pencil or other writing instrument. It can be unique to each individual, but they generally fall into three categories: print, pre-cursive and cursive handwriting styles.

What are the different styles of handwriting?

In primary education, handwriting is an essential skill, as all pupils' literacy lessons will require them to put pen to paper in one form or another. Handwriting involves the practice of writing by hand using a pen, pencil or another writing instrument, and this skill is known as penmanship.

Handwriting styles come in three variations: print, pre-cursive, and cursive. The uniqueness of each person's handwriting makes it a valuable tool for verifying the author of a document.

But before we dive into supporting learners with these delightful handwriting styles, it's essential to gain an understanding of each of them. In this Wiki, we’ll explore the three main styles of handwriting, along with a few handwriting examples to help us.

1. Handwriting size: The size of letters might reveal whether a pupil is shy or outgoing. If they write with large letters that go over the top line, they're likely to be outgoing and confident. However, pupils who write using small and close-together letters then pupils may be shy and unlikely to speak out in class. Whichever pupils are more comfortable with, it's very important to help them develop consistency in their writing size.
2. Pen pressure: Putting a lot or a little amount of pressure on the page can say a lot about the stress levels of a pupil. If they apply heavy pressure when using a pen or pencil, then this is a sign that they're committed to their learning. However, it can also signify that they're prone to feeling stressed and pressured by their workload. On the other hand, light pressure denotes sensitivity and empathy.
3. Attention to detail: Aspects of handwriting, such as dotting their 'i's and crossing their 't's, can also say a lot about a pupil's learning style. Those placing the dot high above their 'i's have imaginative personalities, and those writing it off to the left tend to procrastinate. Organised and emphatic people place the dot firmly above the 'i' when writing by hand.
4. Letter spacing: Some people space their letters out, whilst some people's writing is written close together. There should be equal spacing between letters in the word, with a finger space between individual words.
5. Pen lifts: This refers to letter separation and joins when writing by lifting the pen off the page or keeping a continuous flow. It is important that children know when to lift the pen off the pen and when to join letters as part of cursive handwriting practice.