How do I train myself to write more carefully?

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How can I improve my handwriting?

Paper-based notes are quite essential part of my GTD process. I use them mostly for two things - daily todo list and for thoughts collection.

It works quite well, except for one thing - my handwriting is bad. At times is so bad I can't decipher a short, 4 words sentence, I "scribbled" down a day before.

It is mostly bad because I am a fast writer and my handwriting suffers because of it. I came to the conclusion that I would have been more productive if I could slow myself down when writing to improve the handwriting.

Can you recommend something how can I slowdown myself and not to rush when writing?

user2686

Posted 2012-03-16T14:11:11.690

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see How can I improve my handwriting? and Would improving my penmanship improve my productivity?

– Raystafarian – 2012-03-16T14:22:23.707

@Raystafarian: This question isn't quite the same. It isn't about generally improving ones writing skill, but about training oneself to write more carefully – Casebash – 2012-03-19T12:54:52.067

Answers

I have horrible handwriting too: my solution has been to always write in caps. That seems to make a huge difference without having to devote lots of time relearning how to write! Another big thing is to use a pen that's comfortable. For me if the pen is too thin, my writing is way worse than with a fatter pen.

whiterainbow

Posted 2012-03-16T14:11:11.690

Reputation: 41

I found this article, Tips for improving your handwriting, which was mentioned in one of the related questions, helpful. It's the first I've seen distinguish between writing with your fingers vs. using your "shoulder-girdle and forearm muscles". I've always written with my fingers and didn't imagine there was another way. I've been experimenting with this a little (when I remember) and can start to feel the difference without it feeling so awkward. Next step would be to practice (in short sessions) and retrain myself by slowing down and getting used to deliberately forming each letter as I write. I'd expect benefits to slowly show up in my regular full-speed writing over time.

I looked at my 4 year-olds writing last night and said, "Hey, that looks like my writing! Hmmm....I imagine that says more about me than her." It's not critical for me to improve, but it would be nice.

eflat

Posted 2012-03-16T14:11:11.690

Reputation: 1 052