When Taking Notes: Cursive or Print?

Introduction

The age-old debate over whether to write in cursive or print is a common discussion among students and adults alike. As someone who has switched from one style to the other throughout life, my experience offers a unique perspective on these writing styles.

A Personal Journey

I am 34 years old, and I have a fair amount of experience with both cursive and print handwriting. As a 21-year-old, I would write the narrative part of my citations in cursive, which back in those days, was a common practice before it began to fall out of fashion. Today, cursive is used less frequently, and most people would opt for print handwriting if their writing is legible.

My handwriting is slightly above average, but even those with clear writing are a rarity now. The trend towards cursive is mostly preserved by older generations who were taught it in their younger years. As for myself, I learned cursive in the third grade, a time when cell phones and the internet were non-existent.

Faster and More Practical: Why Cursive?

For many people over a certain age, cursive writing remains the preferred choice because it is faster and more practical. In contrast, younger generations are more likely to opt for print. In the United States, for instance, cursive handwriting has fallen out of favor over the years, as electronic devices and typing have replaced traditional pen and paper writing.

Until the advent of typewriters, everything was handwritten. This included signing bank checks, legal documents, and homework. In those days, using print handwriting might have been seen as a sign of lazy effort. Today, while cursive is not as prevalent, it still holds a place in certain contexts, such as note-taking and formal letter writing.

Preference and Practicality

When taking notes, I find that cursive is faster and easier to read later on. However, under different circumstances, I opt for print handwriting. For me, the choice often depends on the context and my mood. Sometimes, I switch between the two styles, and it can be as simple as the type of pen I'm using or just a matter of personal preference.

One of the key reasons I prefer cursive is the reduced hand fatigue. Writing in cursive allows me to express my thoughts more fluidly, making the process more efficient. In contrast, print handwriting, while legible, can be more laborious and time-consuming, especially when rushed.

Combination of Both

My usual handwriting is a combination of both cursive and print. Sometimes, I find that a blend of the two styles works best for me. It's a mix of the fluidity of cursive and the clarity of print. This combination is particularly useful when I need to write fast or when I have a deadline, as it allows me to maintain speed while ensuring legibility.

Occasionally, I let my style get carried away, and I start writing in a "cutesy" print style, completely abandoning cursive. However, this is a rare occurrence, and eventually, the two styles merge back together in my writing.

Conclusion

The debate over cursive vs. print handwriting is ongoing, and the choice largely depends on the individual's circumstances. For me, both styles have their advantages, and I often find myself switching between them based on the task at hand. Whether you prefer cursive or print, it's essential to remember that legibility is the key.

Keywords: handwriting, cursive, print

Attachments: Handwriting samples attached below.