Handwriting Choices: Block Capital, Cursive, or Digital?

When it comes to writing, do you prefer the traditional ink on paper method or the convenience of your digital keyboard? My preferences depend greatly on the task at hand and the audience.

For simple lists, such as shopping lists for myself, I opt for block capitals. This style is more readable while I'm wandering around the supermarket. It's a quick and efficient way to jot down quick items that don't require much thought or detail.

When it comes to more personal and informal writing, such as a letter to a friend, I revert to cursive script. I was taught this method in school, and while it can be a bit tricky to master, it adds a personal touch to my communication. However, for anything more formal, I always go for my computer.

Over the years, I've invested in keyboards and even treasured a split mechanical keyboard, finding that digital writing offers a more comfortable and efficient experience, especially for tasks that require attention to detail.

My choice to avoid handwriting is driven by various factors, including my dyslexia, dyspraxia, and being left-handed. Handwriting presents significant challenges, from finding the right words to the physical strain it imposes. Even a few lines can lead to hand cramping, and unless I use very quick-drying ink, smudging is a frequent occurrence.

When I do resort to handwriting, I lean towards printing rather than using cursive script. My cursive handwriting is notoriously difficult to read, even for me, while my print is at least readable. This preference for printing can be seen in a simple attempt to write out the first line in both styles, where the print is more legible.

For specific tasks, I use specific pens. A Uni-ball eye Fine pen by Mitsubishi Pencil Co. Ltd in black is my go-to for most writing needs. For note-taking, I sometimes use red for cutting or green for adding, a technique I used frequently when writing scripts for editing purposes.

My handwritten notes are a mix of printing and cursive, much like the Palmer Method, which aligns with my experience but without the strict formalities. I tend to use a split mechanical keyboard when I need to write something by hand, such as notes to myself or informal texts.

While I may occasionally write by hand, it is far from my preferred mode of communication. The experience and the ease of digital writing make it the clear choice for me.