biography in cursive writing

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How to Write in Cursive

Last Updated: June 27, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was reviewed by Tami Claytor . Tami Claytor is an Etiquette Coach, Image Consultant, and the Owner of Always Appropriate Image and Etiquette Consulting in New York, New York. With over 20 years of experience, Tami specializes in teaching etiquette classes to individuals, students, companies, and community organizations. Tami has spent decades studying cultures through her extensive travels across five continents and has created cultural diversity workshops to promote social justice and cross-cultural awareness. She holds a BA in Economics with a concentration in International Relations from Clark University. Tami studied at the Ophelia DeVore School of Charm and the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she earned her Image Consultant Certification. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 2,066,748 times.

Writing in cursive is a good skill to have if you’d like to handwrite a letter, a journal entry, or an invitation. Start by improving your writing skill by making adjustments. You can then practice lowercase and uppercase letters in cursive, working your way through the alphabet. Make sure you also perfect your technique by practicing once a day and challenging yourself to write long sentences or paragraphs in cursive.

Starting Off

• You should not write at a desk that is too low or too high for you. Make sure you do not have to crouch or strain yourself to sit comfortably at the desk.

• You can also use pencil to write in cursive, especially if you want the option of erasing your letters and starting again. Get a B pencil with a triangular barrel, as it will be softer on the paper and easier to write with.

• If you’d prefer plain paper so you have more room to try the flowing, loose movements of cursive, you can use it. However, it may be more difficult for you to make your letters uniform without lines on the paper.

• Angling the paper will make it easier for you to slant your letters as you write. In cursive, your letters should slant up and to the right by 35 degrees.

Creating Lowercase Cursive Letters

• Once you master "a" and "c," try doing letters that follow similar strokes like “d,” “q,” and “g.”

• You can also try other letters that follow similar strokes, such as “w” and “t.”

• You can try other letters that follow similar strokes, such as “h,” “k,” “b,” “f,” and “j.”

• Once you master these letters, try letters that follow similar strokes like “v” and “x.”

Doing Uppercase Cursive Letters

• An uppercase "A" in cursive is similar to a lowercase "a" in cursive. It should touch the top and bottom lines.

• The letters “O,” “M,” and “N” in uppercase follow the same strokes as lowercase. The only difference is that the uppercase letters cover more space on the line.

• An uppercase “B” is written very differently in cursive than a lowercase “b.” You may need to practice it a few times to get it right.

• An “E” in cursive looks a lot like a backwards “3.”

Perfecting Your Technique

• Look for letter guides online. You can also ask your instructors or teachers for letter guides.

• You can also try doing a pattern of a different letter on each line of the page.
• If you find certain letters difficult, challenge yourself to do a pattern of the letter.

• You can also try writing your name in cursive, especially if it is short.

• As a fun challenge, you can try writing out sentences or phrases that you like from books, songs, or movies in cursive as part of your practice.

Community Q&A

• Brush pens are often used for cursive lettering to achieve swooping, calligraphy-style lettering. However, you should stick to normal pens when starting out so you don't over-complicate things. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• If you're really struggling with a certain letter, adapt it slightly to work for you. If you're stuck on a lowercase "b," for example, alter the form slightly to look more like a printed "b." Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0

Tips from our Readers

• Practice with phrases that use nearly every letter of the alphabet, like "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog," "The five boxing wizards jump quickly," or "Sphinx of black quartz, judge my vow."
• Try using cursive instead of print in your everyday life. For example, take notes in cursive during class or write your grocery list in cursive.

Things You’ll Need

• An ink pen or a pencil
• Lined or plain paper

Sample Alphabets and Practice Page

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.readingrockets.org/article/importance-teaching-handwriting
• ↑ https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2014/may/11/how-improve-your-handwriting
• ↑ http://www.artofmanliness.com/2014/12/16/improve-your-cursive-handwriting/
• ↑ http://www.kidzone.ws/cursive/
• ↑ http://www.handwritingforkids.com/handwrite/cursive/animation/uppercase.htm
• ↑ https://libraryguides.centennialcollege.ca/c.php?g=712179&p=5076896

About This Article

To get started writing cursive, it helps to have the right materials. Use a pen with ink that flows smoothly, such as a felt-tip pen or a gel pen. You can also write cursive with a pencil, which will make it easier to fix mistakes as you learn. Choose writing paper with lines to help make sure that your writing comes out straight and the sizes and shapes of your letters stay consistent. If possible, get three-lined paper that has a dotted line in the middle of each set of solid lines. As you write, keep the paper tilted at a 35° angle, which will help give the letters the correct amount of slant. Keep a relaxed grip on the pen or pencil and hold it at a 45° angle relative to the paper. Practice writing the lower-case letters first, since these are the ones you’ll use the most often. You might find it helpful to use a cursive letter chart that shows the steps to write each letter. For example, when you’re writing a lower-case a on 3-lined paper, begin with an upward stroke that starts at the solid bottom line and curves up until it meets the dotted line in the middle, then goes back down slightly. Then, trace the line backwards, but this time swoop back up and around to meet the end of the first stroke. Swoop back down to make a curving “tail” that ends just before it meets the dotted line. After you’ve mastered the lower-case letters, get to know the upper-case ones. While some of them, like A, are basically bigger versions of the lower-case letters, others look completely different. For example, you’ll need to use a totally different technique to make an upper-case F from the method you use to write the lower-case version. Once you’re used to writing all the letters, it’s time to put them together. Part of what makes cursive different from print is that the letters connect, which helps the script flow smoothly while you’re writing. Practice writing connected rows of letters, then move on to writing out words and sentences in cursive. It may feel awkward at first, but with about 20 minutes of practice a day, you’ll soon be writing beautiful, flowing cursive. If you want to learn how to improve your penmanship while writing cursive, keep reading the article! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Write in Cursive (Ultimate Guide + Video)

As someone who had the challenge of learning cursive early (and then again) later in life, I know the hurdles firsthand.

But through practice and patience, I’ve grown to love its flow and artistry. Let’s demystify cursive writing together so you can write confidently and effortlessly.

Summary of Writing in Cursive

Writing in cursive is about connecting letters smoothly to form words with a single, flowing motion. Unlike print writing, cursive eliminates the need to lift the pen after each letter. It requires learning distinct letter forms and practicing consistency and rhythm.

Table of Contents

This guide covers everything, from beginner steps to advanced techniques, so you can master cursive writing and make it an enjoyable practice.

How to Start Writing in Cursive

To start writing in cursive, you’ll need the right style, tools, basic strokes, and letter forms.

Choose a Style and Tools

To begin, pick a cursive style that’s simple and easy to read.

I recommend learning D’Nealian or Zaner-Bloser, which are two popular styles in North America. Grab a pen that feels comfortable, preferably with quick-drying ink to avoid smudging. Have lined paper handy to help with uniform letter height and alignment.

For some of my favorite pens for writers, check out the links at the end of this article.

Practice Basic Strokes

Start by practicing basic strokes – loops, upstrokes, and downstrokes.

These are the building blocks of cursive. Focus on getting smooth, even strokes and maintaining a consistent rhythm. Slow down if necessary; aim for neatness, not speed.

Practice Exercise

Before diving into cursive letters, it’s essential to get comfortable with foundational strokes.

This exercise will help you build confidence with the pen and prepare you for writing the alphabet:

• Vertical Lines – Draw parallel lines from top to bottom, making sure each line is straight and evenly spaced.
• Curved Lines – Draw lines that curve smoothly up and down, resembling waves. Keep the curves consistent in size.
• Loops – Practice loops by starting with a small upward stroke, then looping down and around in a clockwise direction.
• Ovals – Draw consistent ovals, maintaining uniform width and height. Keep a steady rhythm to achieve smooth curves.
• Connecting Strokes – Practice connecting horizontal lines from one loop or oval to the next, as these transitions are critical when writing words.

Repeat these strokes daily to develop a steady hand and smooth pen movement.

Learn Letter Forms

Work on individual letters after you’ve mastered the strokes.

Start with lowercase letters because they’re easier to connect. Make sure each letter begins and ends at the right spot to ease the transition to the next.

Once comfortable, practice uppercase letters, then try forming words by connecting letters.

How to Write Each Letter of the Alphabet in Cursive

Here’s a simple table chart describing how to write each letter in cursive:

What Is the Easiest Cursive to Learn?

The easiest cursive to learn is based on simplicity. Two great options include Zaner-Bloser and italic handwriting.

Here is my opinions based on my own experience.

Focus on Simplicity

D’Nealian is often the easiest style to learn because it resembles print writing but with added slant and loops. It’s less ornate and more intuitive for beginners. The slant angle helps transition to cursive while retaining clarity.

Zaner-Bloser: Structured and Clean

Zaner-Bloser is another excellent choice. It emphasizes straight lines, loops, and simplicity.

The structure and clean lines make it ideal for students and anyone new to cursive writing.

Italic Handwriting

Italic handwriting strikes a balance between print and cursive.

It’s recognized for slanted letters and fewer connections between them. This style is easier for those used to writing in print while maintaining the flow characteristic of cursive.

Here is a good video about how to write in cursive:

How to Write Cursive on a Keyboard

If you want to learn how to write cursive on a keyboard, you’ll likely want to use cursive fonts, keyboard shortcuts, and personalization.

Use Cursive Fonts

If typing is your preference, select a cursive font on your word processor.

Examples include Brush Script, Pacifico, and Great Vibes. Using these fonts allows you to simulate cursive writing digitally.

Keyboard Shortcuts and Software

Keyboard shortcuts and handwriting software streamline cursive typing.

Some applications recognize cursive input through a digital stylus or touchscreen, converting it into a font.

Others convert standard keyboard typing into cursive fonts.

Personalization

Personalize your cursive fonts by adjusting the slant or spacing.

Experiment with different font styles to match your intended aesthetic. Just ensure the text remains legible and clear.

How to Get Used to Writing in Cursive

With time, consistency, practice, and self-assessment, you’ll get used to writing in cursive.

It may take longer for some and shorter for others, but you’ll get there!

Consistent Practice

Practice daily by writing common words, sentences, or phrases in cursive.

Repetition builds muscle memory, making writing feel more natural over time. Set small daily goals to improve letter shapes, spacing, and flow.

Write in Real-World Situations

Incorporate cursive writing into daily tasks – journaling, writing notes, or addressing letters.

Writing in practical scenarios helps you adapt to writing cursive fluidly without overthinking it.

Evaluate and Improve

Periodically compare your current writing to earlier samples.

Assess where improvements can be made and refine individual letters or connections. Watching videos of skilled cursive writers or following writing guides can also inspire improvement.

Is Cursive Writing Faster?

Yes, cursive writing can be faster than printing.

The connected strokes in cursive mean that the pen remains on the paper, reducing the time it takes to lift the pen and start the next letter.

This seamless motion allows for quicker writing speeds once a person becomes familiar with the flow of cursive letters.

However, speed ultimately depends on the individual’s practice and comfort with the style.

Is Cursive Better for the Brain?

Research suggests that cursive writing has cognitive benefits.

It engages multiple regions of the brain involved in thinking, memory, and motor skills. Learning cursive can improve fine motor coordination, visual recognition, and reading comprehension.

Additionally, studies show that writing by hand stimulates the brain differently than typing and helps reinforce information retention.

What Is the Best Age to Learn Cursive Writing?

The ideal age to start learning cursive writing is around 7-8 years old.

At this age, children typically have developed fine motor skills needed to control the writing instrument.

They are also more likely to have already learned the basics of print writing, making the transition to cursive smoother.

However, it’s never too late to learn cursive—adults can also develop proficiency with patience and consistent practice.

Is Cursive Still Taught in Schools?

The teaching of cursive writing varies widely.

Some schools include it as a core skill in their curriculum, while others have phased it out in favor of keyboarding or print writing.

Its declining presence in many educational systems often results from the emphasis on digital literacy. However, some regions and private institutions recognize its value and continue to offer cursive instruction in early education.

Final Thoughts: How to Write in Cursive

The most important thing to remember is to give yourself time and grace to scale up your cursive skills.

Unless you are a penmanship prodigy, you won’t learn perfect cursive overnight.

Read This Next:

• 8 Best Mechanical Pencils for Writing [Expert Guide]
• How to Write an Address (21+ Examples)
• 11 Best Pens for Writing [Ultimate Guide for Writers]
• 100 Best A Words for Kids (+ How to Use Them)

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Cursive Writing: What Is It & How To Learn Cursive

• January 18, 2024

Table of Contents:

Introduction, what is cursive writing, background of cursive writing, learning cursive writing: take it step by step, step 1: understand the cursive alphabet, step 2: master individual letters, step 3: practice capital letters, step 4: joining letters, step 6: practice with sentences, is there an order for teaching cursive writing, why people write in cursive, speed and efficiency:, intellectual development:, aesthetic appeal:, individuality:, tips to write well in cursive, understand the cursive alphabet:, use the right tools:, start with lowercase letters:, consistent practice:, master the connections:, maintain a steady pace:, posture and grip matter:, experiment with styles:, conclusion:.

Cursive writing is a style of handwriting where all the letters in a word are joined, giving the penmanship a flowing, often elegant, appearance. One can trace its origins back to Roman times. At its core, this writing is a skill blending aesthetics and efficiency – it helps write faster and adds a visual appeal to the written text. Learning cursive involves more than just mastering elegant letters. It enhances cognitive abilities and academic performance, contributing to children’s mental and intellectual development.

Our Manuscript Writing Guide offers step-by-step instructions on writing in cursive and provides insightful tips to make learning more enjoyable and rewarding.

Cursive writing is a unique style of penmanship primarily characterized by handwriting, where letters are often connected in a flowing manner. ‘Cursive’ is derived from the Latin’ cursivus,’ meaning ‘flowing’ or ‘running.’ This alludes to the pen’s flowing and continuous movement while writing cursive.

When learning cursive, consider letter positioning and shape as key elements. Each letter has its designated line, forming a joint writing style prevalent throughout history. Cursive, valued by professors, enhances writing prowess.

Master sloping letters starting from the base and ending with a stroke at the upper baseline. Some letters feature loops at the top or bottom, varying by letter.

Now, let’s talk about a little of its history. The origins of cursive writing date back to the times of ancient civilizations. The Romans were among the first societies to use this writing style, developing it as a way to write faster and more efficiently. This swift writing style was valuable, enabling scribes to capture live speeches and facilitating maintaining records more quickly.

But it took off during the Renaissance, with the advent of the writing method known as “Italic Handwriting.” Named after Italy, its place of origin, Italic Handwriting is a semi-cursive writing style characterized by curved and flowing letters, which were easier to write and more aesthetic.

By the 18th and 19th centuries, this writing style became commonly taught in schools worldwide. Modifications and developments led to different styles of cursive writing, influenced by specific geographical regions like English Roundhand and Spencerian Script in America.

Learning to write in cursive can be super fun and rewarding. It’s like drawing and writing all mixed up together. Here’s a step-by-step guide that’ll have you writing cursive like a pro in no time.

Okay, so each cursive letter is a bit like a little drawing. Some are like loops, and others have tails. Knowing what each letter should look like is your first big step. And watch out for the ‘entry strokes’ and ‘exit strokes’ – they’re like ramps to help letters join up and dance across the page together.

Now, let’s buckle down and draw – I mean, write these letters! Grab some lined paper (those lines are like training wheels), and start with the easiest lower-case ones like ‘c,’ ‘l,’ ‘a,’ ‘d,’ ‘g,’ and ‘o.’ They’re mostly all about the loop-de-loops. After you’ve got the easy dudes down, step up to the tricky gang like ‘b,’ ‘f,’ ‘k,’ ‘p,’ and ‘z.’

Capital letters in cursive can look super fancy, like kings and queens of the alphabet. They’re a bit tougher than the lower-case crew, so tackle them with patience. Like before, stick with it until you feel you’ve befriended each of these capital letter royals.

Linking the letters together is what makes cursive, well, cursive! Practice sliding from one letter to the next without picking up your pen. It’s like they’re holding hands.

Then, It’s combining letters time! Start small with easy words. Once you’re good at those, throw in some longer ones. It’s like building with blocks – start with a small tower before you build the castle.

Got the hang of individual words? Excellent! Now, it’s time to connect them into sentences. This is where all your learning truly comes to life. Keep that pen flowing, connecting your thoughts and your paper seamlessly.

As with any skill, mastering cursive writing requires a dedicated commitment. Establish a writing routine where you put aside at least 20 minutes each day to focus on the cursive alphabet—start with lowercase letters before progressing to uppercase ones. Writing essay drafts in cursive enhances skill and familiarity. Later, type them into a Word document for ease and practice.

The more you write, the more your hand remembers, and the better you get. It’s like playing a game – the more you play, the higher your score.

Teaching cursive doesn’t follow a strict order, but experts suggest starting with lowercase letters before uppercase ones.

Children typically begin learning cursive around age seven, progressing independently by age nine. The recommended order for learning cursive letters includes:

– c, a, d, g, q

– i, t, p, u, w, j

– e, l, f, h

– k, r, s

– b, o, v

– m, n, y, x, z

This sequence, backed by research, introduces simpler letters first, resembling their print counterparts and aiding in joining words efficiently. Progression to more complex letters occurs as children master initial ones through consistent practice.

Cursive writing is gradually regaining popularity, with handwriting enthusiasts and educational institutions advocating its benefits. Here are a few reasons why people choose to write in cursive:

Writing in cursive is significantly faster than print handwriting. The continuous flow of cursive handwriting increases writing speed, promoting efficiency.

Research suggests that learning cursive can enhance intellectual development in children. It helps refine motor skills, improves literacy levels, facilitates memory recall, and promotes the development of cognitive skills.

Cursive handwriting offers a unique aesthetic appeal that adds personal charm to any written piece. Its fluidity makes it ideal for ceremonial documents and calligraphy. Furthermore, the role of cover design typesetting enhances this visual charm in print documents, creating a polished look.

In addition to its functional and cognitive benefits, this writing style is unique to each writer. How one connects and forms letters is typically individual, fostering self-expression and providing a sense of identity through penmanship.

Writing in Cursive is a beautiful art form, though it may seem daunting initially. Here are some practical tips to improve your cursive writing skills:

To write well in cursive, first familiarize yourself with the cursive alphabet. Note the nuances for each letter in the cursive script — both lowercase and uppercase.

A good quality pen or pencil and lined paper can greatly impact how you learn this writing style. A pen running smoothly over the paper will make writing much easier.

Lowercase letters are simpler and more frequently used in this style of writing. Practice them consistently until you’re comfortable, then graduate to uppercase letters.

Like any other skill, practice makes perfect. Develop a habit of writing in cursive daily. This consistency will help you retain the unique strokes of cursive.

The cursive style of writing is all about the flow. Spend ample time mastering connecting one letter to another, creating an uninterrupted line of text.

Keep your speed slow and consistent while learning. Trying to write quickly may make your letterforms sloppy. As you become more comfortable with cursive writing, gradually increase your speed while maintaining legibility.

A comfortable sitting posture and a relaxed yet firm grip on the pen can help you write better and for longer periods.

Over time, you can experiment with cursive variations to develop your unique style. Remember, your handwriting is a reflection of your individuality.

Should You Teach Cursive Writing?

Teaching cursive writing offers numerous benefits, making it a valuable skill for children. Beautiful cursive enhances neatness and writing speed, which is crucial for jotting down lecture notes efficiently.

Cursive fosters motor skills, pen control, and letter recognition while refining manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination. Introducing cursive early facilitates easier skill absorption, aiding overall education.

Cursive isn’t limited to English; it’s a tool across disciplines. Encouraging cursive empowers children to express themselves uniquely, fostering individual handwriting styles. Embrace the art of cursive for its practicality and personal touch in communication and self-expression.

When considering all the enriching benefits of learning cursive, it’s also worth noting that these skills extend beyond education settings. Partnering with a Business Book Writing can bring that vision to life for those looking to further reinforce this skill, or perhaps even publish their cursive practice materials. Such services can assist in creating customized practice books to preserve the art of cursive writing.

Cursive writing is integral to human culture and history with varied practical, intellectual, and aesthetic benefits. While technology continues to evolve and mechanical typing replaces handwriting, nothing can beat the charm, individuality, and personal touch of a well-scripted cursive note.

Becoming proficient in cursive involves more than mastering strokes and connections—it promotes cognitive growth and fosters a feeling of artistic individuality.

Though technology’s impact is immense, particularly with tools like AI writing generators for creating custom learning resources, the significance of cursive doesn’t dwindle. Using AI for studying cursive can be an advantage, but the essence of the skill lies in personal dedication and practice.

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How to write in cursive: a beginner’s guide, table of contents.

Are you looking to learn how to write in cursive? Whether you’re a student, teacher, or just someone who wants to improve their handwriting, cursive writing is a valuable skill to have. While it may seem daunting at first, with practice and patience, anyone can master the art of cursive writing.

Getting started with cursive writing may seem overwhelming, but it’s important to start with the basics. Before diving into letters and words, make sure you have a comfortable workspace and the proper equipment. Sit at a desk with good posture and use a pen or pencil that feels comfortable in your hand. Once you’re set up, it’s time to start practicing your lowercase letters.

Key Takeaways

• Start with the basics and make sure you have a comfortable workspace and proper equipment.
• Master lowercase letters before progressing to uppercase letters.
• Practice regularly and try out digital cursive writing to improve your skills.

Getting Started with Cursive Writing

If you’re looking to learn how to write in cursive, there are a few things you need to know before you get started. In this section, we’ll cover the basics of cursive writing, including the cursive alphabet and the tools you’ll need to get started.

Understanding the Cursive Alphabet

The cursive alphabet is a bit different from the standard alphabet you learned in school. It’s important to understand how each letter is formed and how they connect to one another. We recommend finding a cursive alphabet chart online or printing one out to use as a reference as you practice.

Here’s a quick overview of the cursive alphabet:

Choosing the Right Tools

When it comes to cursive writing, the tools you use can make a big difference. While you can technically write in cursive with any writing utensil , we recommend using an ink pen with a felt tip or a gel pen that releases a fluid line of ink. This will help you achieve a smooth, consistent line.

When it comes to grip, it’s important to find a comfortable position that allows you to write smoothly without straining your hand. We recommend holding your pen or pencil with a relaxed grip, using your fingers to guide the writing rather than your wrist or arm.

In summary, learning how to write in cursive takes practice and patience. By understanding the cursive alphabet and choosing the right tools, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this beautiful form of penmanship.

Mastering Lowercase Letters

If you’re new to cursive writing, it can be a bit overwhelming to know where to start. We recommend starting with lowercase letters as they are easier to write and require fewer strokes.

Forming Lowercase Cursive Letters

To form lowercase cursive letters, you’ll need to start with the basic shapes that form the foundation of cursive writing. These shapes include the oval, loop, and slant.

To form an “a,” for example, start with a small oval shape. Then, make a stroke downward from the top of the oval and extend the stroke upward, just above the bottom line.

For the letter “b,” start with a small loop at the top line, extending from the right to the left. Then, make a downward stroke to the bottom line, curving the stroke to the right and looping back up to the top line.

Connecting Lowercase Letters

Once you’ve mastered forming lowercase letters, it’s time to start connecting them. Connecting letters is what gives cursive writing its unique flow and elegance.

To connect letters, start by lifting your pen or pencil slightly off the paper after finishing the first letter. Then, move your pen to the starting point of the second letter and begin writing it.

Some letters, such as “e” and “o,” connect easily to the letters that follow them. Other letters, such as “s” and “p,” require a bit more finesse to connect smoothly.

Practice connecting letters until you feel comfortable with the flow of your writing. Remember to keep your writing slanted to the right by 35 degrees for a consistent look.

By mastering lowercase letters and connections, you’ll be well on your way to developing a beautiful cursive handwriting style.

Progressing to Uppercase Letters

Learning cursive writing can be a fun and exciting experience. Once you have mastered lowercase letters, it’s time to move on to uppercase or capital cursive letters. In this section, we will discuss some tips and tricks to help you progress to uppercase letters.

Learning Capital Cursive Letters

Learning capital cursive letters can be challenging, but with the right approach, it can be a lot of fun. The key is to take it one letter at a time. Start with the letters that are easiest for you to write, such as the letters C, O, Q, and G. These letters are similar to their lowercase counterparts and require only a few extra strokes to make them uppercase.

Once you have mastered these letters, move on to the more complex letters, such as the letters B, D, and P. These letters require more strokes and attention to detail. Take your time and practice each letter until you feel comfortable with it.

Linking Uppercase to Lowercase

One of the most important aspects of cursive writing is the ability to link uppercase and lowercase letters together. This creates a more fluid and natural look to your writing. To link uppercase letters to lowercase letters, you need to pay attention to the size and shape of each letter.

For example, when writing the word “Hello,” the uppercase letter H should be the same size as the lowercase letters e, l, and o. To link the H to the e, start the e at the top of the H and connect the two with a small loop. Repeat this process for the rest of the letters in the word.

Another important aspect of linking uppercase and lowercase letters is understanding the spacing between letters. Uppercase letters should be slightly larger than lowercase letters, but they should not be so large that they take up too much space. Practice linking uppercase and lowercase letters together until you find a spacing that looks natural and balanced.

In conclusion, learning uppercase cursive letters is an important step in mastering cursive writing. Take your time and practice each letter until you feel comfortable with it. Remember to link uppercase and lowercase letters together to create a more natural and fluid look to your writing.

Cursive Writing Techniques

Writing in cursive is a skill that requires practice and patience. However, with the right techniques, anyone can perfect their cursive writing. In this section, we will discuss two important techniques that will help you improve your cursive writing skills.

Perfecting the Cursive Slant

One of the defining features of cursive writing is its slant. To achieve the perfect slant, you need to hold your pen at a certain angle. The ideal angle is around 45 degrees, but this can vary depending on your handwriting style. Experiment with different angles until you find the one that works best for you.

Another way to perfect your slant is to use guidelines. Draw a line on your paper to indicate the angle of your slant. This will help you keep your letters consistent and prevent them from slanting in different directions.

Improving Spacing and Sizing

Spacing and sizing are important aspects of cursive writing. You want your letters to be evenly spaced and the same size. To achieve this, you need to pay attention to the spaces between your letters and the size of your loops.

One way to improve your spacing is to use guidelines. Draw a line for the top and bottom of your letters, as well as a line for the middle. This will help you keep your letters the same size and prevent them from crowding each other.

Another way to improve your sizing is to practice your loops. Loops are an important part of cursive writing and can make your handwriting look more elegant. Practice making your loops the same size and shape, and make sure they are consistent throughout your writing.

By using these techniques, you can improve your cursive writing skills and take your writing to the next level. With practice and patience, you can perfect your technique and become a master of cursive writing.

Practice Makes Perfect

Cursive handwriting requires practice to perfect. The more you practice, the better you become at it. In this section, we will discuss some tips on how to make your practice sessions more effective.

Daily Cursive Practice Routines

It is essential to have a daily practice routine to improve your cursive handwriting. You should set aside a specific time each day to practice. It could be as little as 15 minutes or as long as an hour, depending on your schedule. The most important thing is to be consistent.

When practicing cursive, use lined paper to help you keep your letters uniform in size and shape. You can also use plain paper, but it is more challenging to keep your letters aligned. Using lined paper will help you develop your fine motor skills and create loops that are consistent in size and shape.

Using Practice Sheets Effectively

Another way to practice cursive is to use practice sheets. These sheets are designed to help you learn and perfect your cursive handwriting. You can find practice sheets online or create your own.

When using practice sheets, focus on one letter at a time. Start by writing the letter in isolation, then move on to writing the letter in words and sentences. This will help you develop muscle memory and make it easier to write the letter without thinking about it.

In conclusion, practice is essential to improve your cursive handwriting. Set aside a specific time each day to practice, use lined paper to keep your letters uniform in size and shape, and use practice sheets to focus on one letter at a time. With consistent practice, you will see a significant improvement in your cursive handwriting.

Cursive Writing for Left-Handed Writers

If you’re a left-handed writer, you may find cursive writing a bit challenging. However, with a few adjustments, you can master the art of cursive writing.

Adjusting the Writing Grip and Paper Position

Left-handed writers need to adjust their grip on the pen or pencil to ensure they can write comfortably and fluidly. Instead of holding the pen in a traditional way, left-handed writers should hold the pen in a way that allows them to see what they are writing. This involves holding the pen at a different angle than right-handed writers.

When it comes to paper position, left-handed writers should angle the paper slightly to the right. This helps to avoid smudging and allows for a smoother writing experience. Using a pencil with a harder point or a pen that doesn’t smudge is also recommended to prevent smudging.

Left-Handed Cursive Tips and Tricks

Left-handed writers can also benefit from a few tips and tricks when it comes to cursive writing. Here are a few to keep in mind:

Use a light touch: Left-handed writers should use a light touch when writing in cursive. This helps to prevent the pen or pencil from digging into the paper and creating smudges.

Practice regularly: Like any skill, cursive writing takes practice. Left-handed writers should set aside time to practice their cursive writing regularly.

Focus on letter formation: Left-handed writers should focus on forming their letters correctly. This means paying attention to the size and shape of each letter and ensuring they are consistent throughout the writing.

Use lined paper: Lined paper can be helpful for left-handed writers as it provides a guide for the size and shape of each letter.

By making a few adjustments to their grip and paper position and practicing regularly, left-handed writers can master the art of cursive writing.

Digital Cursive Writing

When it comes to cursive writing in the digital age, there are a few options available to us. Here are some of the most popular:

Cursive Fonts and Calligraphy

One way to incorporate cursive into your digital writing is by using cursive fonts and calligraphy. Many fonts mimic the look of cursive writing, and some even include different styles such as script, handwriting, and brush lettering. You can find these fonts on various websites and download them for free or for a small fee.

If you’re looking for something more unique, you can try calligraphy. Calligraphy is the art of writing beautifully, and it can be done with a pen, brush, or even digitally. There are many calligraphy tutorials available online, and you can use your new skills to create beautiful digital artwork or handwritten notes.

Online Cursive Generators

Another way to incorporate cursive into your digital writing is by using online cursive generators. These generators allow you to type in any text, and they will convert it into cursive handwriting. You can then copy and paste the cursive text into any document, email, or social media post.

Some cursive generators even allow you to customize the style and thickness of the handwriting, making it more personalized. You can find these generators by doing a quick search online, and many of them are free to use.

Overall, incorporating cursive into your digital writing can add a touch of elegance and personality to your work. Whether you choose to use cursive fonts, calligraphy, or online generators, there are plenty of options available to help you achieve the look you want.

Teaching Cursive to Children

Teaching cursive to children can be a fun and rewarding experience for both the teacher and the student. In this section, we will discuss some tips and strategies for creating engaging cursive lessons and addressing common challenges.

Creating Engaging Cursive Lessons

To create engaging cursive lessons, we recommend incorporating a variety of activities and exercises to keep students interested and motivated. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Letterform practice: Begin by introducing students to each letterform, both uppercase and lowercase, and have them practice writing each one. Consider using a worksheet or template to guide their practice and ensure consistency.

Word practice: Once students have mastered individual letterforms, have them practice writing words in cursive. Consider selecting words that are relevant to their interests or current curriculum to keep them engaged.

Sentence and paragraph practice: As students become more comfortable with cursive writing, have them practice writing longer sentences and even paragraphs. Consider having them write short notes or letters to friends or family members in cursive as well.

Use technology: Consider incorporating technology into your cursive lessons by using online resources or interactive whiteboards to demonstrate letterforms and provide practice exercises.

Addressing Common Challenges

When teaching cursive to children, you may encounter some common challenges. Here are a few strategies for addressing them:

Dyslexia: For children with dyslexia, cursive writing can be particularly challenging. Consider using multisensory techniques, such as tracing letters in sand or using textured materials, to help them better understand letterforms. Additionally, consider using colored pens or pencils to help differentiate between letters and words.

Reading cursive: For some children, reading cursive can be just as challenging as writing it. Consider incorporating reading exercises into your cursive lessons to help students become more familiar with cursive letterforms and improve their reading skills.

Hand fatigue: Writing in cursive can be tiring, especially for younger children who are not used to writing for extended periods of time. Consider incorporating short breaks or stretching exercises into your lessons to help students alleviate hand fatigue.

In conclusion, teaching cursive to children can be a fun and rewarding experience. By incorporating a variety of activities and exercises, and addressing common challenges, you can help your students become confident and proficient cursive writers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way for beginners to learn cursive writing.

If you’re new to cursive writing, the best way to start is by learning the basic strokes and letter shapes. You can find many online resources that provide step-by-step guides on how to write in cursive. Some popular resources include SplashLearn and WikiHow . Practice regularly and be patient with yourself, as learning cursive writing takes time and effort.

Can you recommend any cursive writing workbooks?

Yes, there are many cursive writing workbooks available in the market that can help you improve your cursive writing skills. Some popular options include Handwriting Without Tears , Zaner-Bloser , and Getty-Dubay . These workbooks provide a structured approach to learning cursive writing and can be a great resource for beginners.

What are some tips for writing in cursive as an adult?

As an adult, it can be challenging to learn cursive writing, especially if you haven’t practiced it in a long time. Some tips that can help you improve your cursive writing skills include practicing regularly, breaking down letters into basic strokes, focusing on letter connections, and experimenting with different writing styles. You can also use online resources and apps to practice cursive writing.

How can I write cursive letters from A to Z?

To write cursive letters from A to Z, you need to learn the basic strokes and letter shapes. Start by practicing lowercase letters, as they are easier to learn than uppercase letters. Once you have mastered lowercase letters, move on to uppercase letters and letter connections. Remember to practice regularly and be patient with yourself.

What steps should I follow to write in cursive beautifully?

To write in cursive beautifully, you need to focus on letter connections, slant, and spacing. Start by practicing basic strokes and letter shapes, then move on to letter connections. Pay attention to the slant of your letters and try to maintain a consistent angle. Finally, make sure your letters are evenly spaced and have a consistent size.

Are there any apps that can help me practice cursive writing?

Yes, there are many apps available that can help you practice cursive writing. Some popular options include Cursive Writing Wizard , LetterSchool , and iTrace . These apps provide a fun and interactive way to practice cursive writing and can be a great resource for beginners.

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Cursive Writing for Beginners (A Step by Step Intro)

July 11, 2019 - Updated on September 26, 2020

Cursive Writing.

No other activity stimulates the brain the way writing does. Despite the prevalence of tweets, emails, and texts, writing is still a very powerful tool for learning.

In particular, cursive helps students to be better prepared for reading while also enhancing their writing fluency and composition.

But with fewer schools teaching this form of handwriting (some even eliminate all kinds of penmanship courses), and with our increased dependence on typing using keyboards, it’s understandable why there aren’t enough resources to learn this art.

This is why we’ve compiled hacks that can help you master cursive writing.

Cursive Writing for Beginners

Use letter guides.

Although it’s better to hire someone to teach you, letter guides are just as good if you don’t have enough time for one-on-one sessions with a tutor. Look for a comprehensive guide with step-by-step instructions on how to pen each letter. 

In fact, a good book is one that details how to write both the lowercase and uppercase cursive letters. If you’re not sure of which book to go for, seek recommendations from your instructor or teacher. 

Practice one letter at a time

The secret to mastering this writing technique is to exercise patience. In other words, you shouldn’t rush to learn all the cursive letters within an hour or a day.

Chances are, you won’t learn the right form for writing, not to mention, you might get frustrated and give up entirely.

Instead, you should take baby steps; hence start with those letters that are very easy to write. For instance, you can start by learning how to write “a” and “c”.

After perfecting how to create these two, look for letters that follow similar patterns- such as “d”, “q” and “g” and practice on these. Other simple-to-write cursive letters are “i”, “e” and “l”.

Only after being proficient in lowercase letters can you proceed to the uppercase letters. And even then, you should begin with uppercase letters that are easy to craft. 

After you’ve known the cursive alphabet, you can start forming words by joining letters. Still, you should take small steps in this process. 

By that, I mean that you start by forming two or three-letter words such as “be”, “in”, “of” and more. Next, challenge yourself to create four-letter words and so on. You can then practice writing your name or common phrases, especially those with fewer letters. 

Have a routine

As with any other activity, learning cursive writing requires dedication on your part. Cursive writing for beginners has to start with consistency.

This means coming up with a practice schedule. Set aside 20-30 minutes every day to do cursive. You can do this in the morning, right before you head to work or school. Or, it can be part of your evening routine. 

To make this learning process interesting, you can try writing sentences from song lyrics or phrases from your favorite books and films. 

Learning to write in cursive is not that difficult. Once you get a good understanding of the cursive alphabet, it won’t take long before you master this form of writing.

The important thing is that you take gradual steps: start with lowercase then uppercase letters. Next, start forming two or three-letter words before you begin writing full sentences. 

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Do you wish to learn how to write in cursive but are confused about where to start? Look no further because we have got you covered. In this article, we will discuss all the tips and tricks related to cursive writing.  Read along as you are just a few steps away from learning how to write cursive.

Back in the 17th and 18th centuries, handwriting was a status symbol. People received penmanship training to preserve their elite status and Master Penmen were hired to copy official documents.

However, as time went by, the importance of penmanship continued to deteriorate. The emergence of solid metal Remington typewriters in the 1950’s and 60’s followed by the invention of bulky computers and laptops in the late 1980s changed the course of history.

Nowadays, every man on the planet is dependent on laptops and mobile phones for writing. It seems as if the art of penmanship is dying. However, some believe that penmanship is too important of a skill to die.

Efforts are being made by many to keep this art alive and these efforts, as of yet, have not gone in vain. People around the world are once again gravitating towards writing by hand. And among the many different writing styles, the timeless cursive writing has once again captivated the attention of writers worldwide.

This beautiful and elegant writing does indeed never go out of style. For this reason, we have devised a list of some of the most famous tips and techniques to help you learn how to write cursive in no time.

This easy to follow guide will help you master the skill by the time you’re done reading. So read along to become a skilled cursive writer.

Table of Contents

What is cursive writing?

Cursive writing is a type of handwriting in which the letters are joined together in a continuous flow. In the past, it used to be a standard practice and was mandatory in schools. However, as time went by, the practice seems to have fallen out and is no longer compulsory in schools.

The cursive writing style is an alternative to block-letters in which the pen is supposed to lift between every letter. Sometimes it is also known as joined-up handwriting or script handwriting.

Cursive writing is a faster form of writing since you need to lift up your pen way less in comparison to other writing styles.

The word cursive comes from the past participle of a Latin word “currere” which means to run. In cursive writing, all the letters run into one another and the hand runs across the page. Every time a document asks for your signature, you are meant to use the flowing cursive style.

In this writing style, the shape of each letter is of vital importance and all the cursive letters have their own line upon which they are written. This has been by far the most commonly used writing style until the modern computer age.

The origins of cursive handwriting

Cursive handwriting, also sometimes known as script writing was first developed in the 17th century. This form of writing was considered to be the most appropriate for important documents and letters.

The origins of cursive writing are closely linked to the quill. Back when pens and pencils did not exist, quill was the most commonly used tool to write. Quills are fragile and very easily broken hence, the cursive writing was created to overcome the limitations of this writing tool.

Cursive writing allowed people to write for a sustained period of time without having to lift the quill from the page. This meant there was a much lesser chance of the quill breaking or spurting out ink.

Is cursive writing important?

There are many benefits of learning cursive writing. Previously, primary schools around the world made it necessary for students to perfect the art of cursive writing. This is because forming letters with the hand by using a pen or pencil is cognitively more effective when learning how to correctly form letters and words.

Learning to form letters by hand creates a connection between your motor and sensory nerves which is an essential part of all forms of learning. Here is a list of a few reasons why cursive writing is important especially for children:

Pros of cursive writing

Helps with letter mix-ups.

For students who are in the first stage of learning letter formation, a few words such as p,q,b and d can be hard to understand. Usually these students end up writing these letters upside down or backwards. In short, it can be a little tricky for them to understand how to write them and takes quite a bit of time before they are able to write them correctly.

By encouraging students to join their letters, these mistakes can be reduced. Especially in the case of dyslexic students who are more prone to making these errors.

Increased concentration

As this form of writing encourages a continuous writing flow, it helps increase concentration. Students are fixated on connecting letters properly,hence their attention is less likely to be diverted. In addition, reducing the amount of times they lift their pen from the page allows them to write more fluidly and helps them to express their ideas continuously.

Faster writing

One of the many reasons why one should learn cursive writing is because it is a much faster style of writing in comparison to others. This is why cursive writing was the prefered form of writing in the past.

It helps students get ready for their exams in the future. It teaches them how to write fast in order to complete the assigned task within the given time limit. Hence, it is an important form of writing.

Even for professionals, it is recommended that they learn this style of writing to get on with their documents faster.

It is a skill

All in all, cursive writing is a skill that will always benefit you in one way or the other. It gives the person an artistic touch and increases their creativity. Nowadays, this form of writing is being used by artists worldwide. It is used to make posters or write personal letters. In short, it embellishes every piece of paper.

Cons of cursive writing

Can be distracting.

One of the biggest arguments against cursive writing is that it diverts the attention of students from other important school subjects and activities. Many parents believe that it is an extra unnecessary burden on their children which can be avoided. There’s also a speculation that affects the grades of core subjects like math and science

Too time-consuming

This skill is without a doubt  time-consuming as it requires constant practice in the early stages of learning. In case, you do not practice, you can forget all the strokes in the blink of an eye and all that time spent can go into waste. Some believe it is not worth the time and effort you have to put into perfecting it.

Deteriorating value

The value of good penmanship is not even half of what it used to be. In times gone by, learning good penmanship was a vital part of children’s education. It would’ve been deemed unacceptable to have poor or ‘messy’ handwriting. However, nowadays, although it is still important for children’s handwriting to be legible, there is no longer great importance placed on how attractive it is.

How to write cursive

The cursive writing style may seem technical and tricky however, that is far from the truth. What the cursive style of writing demands the most is practice. Practice does indeed make you perfect and there is no better way to master this skill.

This part of the article will guide you on how to write in cursive using a few easy to follow tips and techniques.

What you will need:

Pencil sharpener

Practice sheet

Once you have gathered all the above mentioned materials, it is time to start practicing your strokes.

Warm up with basic strokes

Before we dive into cursive writing, lets first do a few warm up strokes

Start with printing out four to five practice sheets on blank A4 paper.

Now start by practicing the basic entrance and exit stroke for the first two lines just to warm up. The cursive script is about joint letters. Hence, to ensure easy connection between words, all lowercase letters have entrance and exit strokes.

Next, you should practice the upward stroke for the first two lines to warm up. This stroke may seem a bit new to you but with a good amount of practice, you shall be able to perfect it. You have to start just above the bottom line. Then you shoot your stroke up to the top line.

The fourth step is to practice the basic curve stroke for one or two lines. You may be required to curl up a bit more than before. Start a little under the dashed line, go up and around anticlockwise toward the bottom line and curve up, leaving a little gap.

Here are a few rules of cursive writing that you need to follow at all times:

• All the similar letters must be of the same height
• All small letters should start at the top
• Good handwriting in cursive style is identified from the patterns of parallel and oval lines
• Capital letters usually shouldn’t be any higher than the rest
• All down strokes of the letters should be parallel

How to write an upward stroke in lowercase alphabet

Now let’s take a look at the lowercase cursive script. It is almost identical to the cursive you learned in elementary school. Thus, it should not be too hard for you to follow.

We shall start by learning some cursive calligraphy letters. The letters f, b, j, u, l ,k ,n ,m ,p ,s ,r, u, v, w, x, y, and z all start with upward strokes. Some of these letters have strokes that fill up the entire height of the line. On the other hand, a few of these only reach the dashed line. Letters like f even reach below the bottom line of the page.

When you move towards practicing letters yourself, you need to sketch them out using your pencil first. Then you can easily follow the pencil lines you have made with your pen. This is especially helpful when learning the letter “k” in cursive.

The letter “u” is the easiest to start with. Start with placing your pen tip on the bottom line. From there, make an upward stroke to the dashed line. Then make a downward stroke that dips to the bottom line and swing back up again. Next, make another downward stroke and end just below the dashed line on the paper. And there you go, you have successfully written the letter u in cursive, that wasn’t too hard right?

Repeat the process of writing a letter “u” a few times so that you have a good grasp of it, this will help you in writing a few other letters as well. Many letters such as i, j, m, n, r, v, w and y are pretty similar to the letter “u ”. Once you have a good grip on the letter u, it should be easier to write the other letters in cursive.

Now let’s try writing a letter that is a bit harder such as the letter “h”. You have to start with the same process as the letter u but its stroke reaches all the way up to the top line. Then you have to arc to the left and make a downward stroke to the bottom line. You’ll cross over your previous line right near the bottom. Now arc up to the dashed line and make a downward stroke back down to the bottom line, curling up and ending just below the dashed line.

Repeat the process of writing the letter “h” a few times. It may take you some time before you are able to write the word correctly and without any help but you should get there. Many other alphabets such as b, f, k, and l are written in the same way.

Slowly make your way through the rest of the curved stroke lowercase letters, using the guide of the strokes as a reference.

How to write the curved stroke lowercase letters

We shall start by practicing some more lowercase cursive script alphabets. Note that the letters a, c, d, e, g, o and q all begin with an entrance stroke. This stroke starts at the bottom line and ends just below the dashed line. Once you have completed the entrance stroke, we then curve the stroke anticlockwise and then round.

You can always sketch out the letters using your pencil first until you properly learned how to make each stroke. Simply follow these lines with your pen. This way you will learn much faster and there will be lesser chances of making mistakes.

Let’s start with the letter “o” as it is the easiest. Start by placing your pen just above the bottom line. Arc up just below the dashed line and then curve round and anticlockwise to close the gap just below the dashed line. Next, come down slightly and flickout the ending on the dashed line. It is much easier than it sounds and can be learned within a matter of minutes.

The key here is to keep on practicing. Without sufficient practice, you are likely to forget the strokes and we do not want that. Practice each letter from time to time so that you can eventually move towards connecting two or more letters to form a word.

Repeat the process of making the letter “o” multiple times before you move on to other words. Once you have perfected this, it is much easier to see how the other downward curve letters are made.

Now let’s move towards a much harder letter: g. You need to start by making the same strokes you made for the letter o; however, instead of creating a circular shape, you need to go straight up and close the gap. Then you need to make a downward stroke and go past the bottom line. Next, curl to the left and make a diagonal upward stroke that continues up and ends just below the dashed line. The upward stroke should intersect the downward stroke of the letter g right at the bottom line.

Repeat the process of writing the letter “g” a few times. Then slowly move  through the rest of the curved stroke lowercase letters, using the guide of the strokes as a reference.

How to write the cursive script uppercase alphabet

The uppercase cursive writing style requires you to follow different rules and is usually a bit more elaborate. In this case, the curved strokes are relatively bigger and the upward strokes have more slants and curls in them. Other than that, the uppercase letters are just as simple to write as lowercase letters. As always, what you need is lots of practice.

It is suggested that you start with the easiest letter and then move towards the harder ones. So let’s start with the letter “L”.  Place the tip of your pen just below the top line. The arc goes down just above the dashed line and around in an anticlockwise motion and comes up to the top line.

Next, arc over to the left and make a downward stroke to the bottom line. Your line should now be slanting towards the right.Once you reach the bottom line, you have to curl up and around. Lastly, sweep your line out to the right to make a nice gentle curve. Remember it’s all about the curls and slants. The bigger, the better.

Repeat the process of writing the letter “L” a few times until you perfect it. Don’t shy away from making big curls and sweeping lines, this shall help your writing stand out. Once you know how to write the letter “L” it will be much easier to write a few other uppercase letters such as E, C, G, O AND Q. The more you practice the better.

Let’s move toward a harder letter such as “R”. Keep the tip of your pen on the top line. From there make a downward stroke to the bottom nicely while arching slightly towards the left and end with a fancy curl. Next, lift your pen and place it on the dashed line. You are supposed to make a curved stroke upwards and make a clockwise motion towards the top line.

Now curve down to the dashed line again and go up and over ever so slightly until you end up creating a loop. Make another curved stroke out to the right and down to the bottom line and again make a fancy curl. This may seem tricky at first, but should be easy once you get a hang of it.

Repeat the process of making the letter “R” a few times till you do it right. Don’t rush the process, start by making slow strokes and then you can later make faster strokes. Writing the letter “R” is pretty similar to letters such as B, D, F, I, J, P,  and T. So start by perfecting the letter R.

In a similar way, practice writing uppercase letters in the cursive style of writing. This may take some time but you shall get the hang of it. Trace the letters, this is the best way to learn and is much faster.

Cursive writing is a good skill and in many ways a form of art. Hence, if you have enough time to spare, definity give it a go. It may take some time to perfect all letters but you’ll be pleased once you have a good hang of it.

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Cursive: A Storied Past and a Complicated Future

Cursive's Future Remains Uncertain

Jason Gelb , Lucio Bollettieri , and Maggie Seidel

September 29, 2021

Understanding Cursive’s Past

By jason gelb.

The history behind cursive begins in ancient Greece and Rome, where early versions of it were most likely used to hasten writing and prevent damage to the writing tool. During these times a quill and ink was used to write, creating two difficulties when it came to writing: the ink would dry out fast, and the quill was easy to break. By keeping the quill on the page longer, the ink on the tip wouldn’t dry out as fast, and the quill was less susceptible to breakage as the writer could better manage the pressure placed on it while writing. Cursive has been present in the English language since before the 11th century, however, it wasn’t until the 17th and 18th centuries that cursive became standardized as Edward Cocker introduced the French ronde style followed by John Ayers and William Banson’s round hand style. These styles were very flamboyant and in order to improve efficiency clerks in the 18th and 19th century simplified them down to a style called fair hand, which is quite similar to cursive today. The development of cursive remained relatively stagnant until the 1960s when some pushed to write cursive in italics to aid learning, but the movement largely fell through. The downfall of cursive has occurred quite quickly relative to the length of its total existence. The first step in cursive’s decline was the invention of the ballpoint pen in 1888. The pen used quick drying ink, preventing smears and reducing the need for careful penmanship. After WWII, ballpoint pens were mass produced, expediting cursive’s decline. This already rapid decline was made even worse once computers and other technologies were introduced to the market, reducing the need for writing as a whole, but especially a style as intricate as cursive. Today the debate around whether cursive is useful still lives on. To some, advanced technology has removed the need for cursive, but many still argue that cursive is a useful tool to expedite and enhance writing.

The Cons of Cursive

By lucio bollettieri.

Cursive’s relevance has shrunk significantly over the last several decades, which is a trend that I believe should be embraced and not resisted. In my mind, cursive writing is the handwritten equivalent of the typewriter: An outdated system that has widely been replaced with a newer, more efficient, and more practical successor. I’m all for the recognition of traditional practices — such as cursive — in a historical context, but the notion that cursive needs to be taught in addition to modern print is redundant, and the idea that cursive should be revived and taught instead of print writing is simply absurd. We aren’t taught to use a rotary phone, so why are we taught to use cursive?

I can recall a small cursive unit near the end of my third grade year at the Blake lower school that spanned a few weeks, but outside of this unit I had no other instruction on how to write or read cursive. I was taught cursive letters and practiced writing and reading them, but not to the extent that I retained a long-term ability to read or write fluidly in cursive. I can passably accomplish both tasks, but have certainly not mastered either. I believe this short exposure to cursive was more than enough knowledge an elementary school student needs to be successful in school. I can certainly say that I do not encounter cursive commonly in my day to day life outside of school, and the only times I can recall being required to use it were all in a school setting. Children are taught cursive so they can use it in the classroom, and cursive is used in the classroom because children are taught to employ it. This is circular logic. A writing form taught in school that is no longer used outside of school is clearly an antiquated and vestigial technique.

These views on cursive are shared amongst the student body. “Cursive is outdated. It’s unnecessary because of the technological advancements we have today like printers and computers,” says Frida Illescas22 , who learned cursive at the elementary charter school she attended. “I don’t see the point in using the limited time we have in classrooms to teach children to write in a certain way when they should be encouraged to express themselves in their writing style however they want.” 

There are obviously situations in which familiarity with cursive would be beneficial (if not essential), such as reading original texts of historical documents, but these scenarios are few and far between. Of course, if a student is interested in cursive they should be able to learn it through instruction. Instead of requiring cursive instruction through, it should be offered as a separate class, much like those for foreign languages. After all, it certainly looks like one to many.   

The Pros of Cursive

By maggie seidel.

I am still drawn to the timeless art of a written card or message. Whether it be for a noteworthy occasion or simply a message of gratitude, there is something intangibly personable about a handwritten note. 

I vividly recall learning how to write lowercase letters in first grade, graduating to uppercase in second grade, and then moving towards cursive writing in third grade. The skill of placing pen to paper and creating legible markings has been instilled in me since I was young. I feel significant gratitude for my penmanship mentors, as this skill will reep lifelong dividends. 

According to a New York Times article written by occupational therapist Suzanne Baruch Asherson, “cursive is shown to improve brain development in the areas of thinking, language and working memory. Cursive handwriting stimulates brain synapses and synchronicity between the left and right hemispheres, something absent from printing and typing.” Not only do handwritten notes provide a thoughtful and considerate message but there is also scientific evidence to support the developmental importance of learning how to write cursive and proper penmanship. The artful qualities of cursive have tangible effects on cognitive development. 

Furthermore, according to a Scholastic article presenting a study conducted by the University of Montreal, the process of visualizing letters and writing words on paper can lead to stronger spelling habits. This ability will enable children to be more confident writers and more effective communicators. 

Although our society becomes ever more reliant upon virtual communication, I concur that the art of the written word and letters will remain. Stories, ideas, and emotion can be conveyed through written messages and passed along for generations, framing traditions and cultures. The gift of writing and penmanship is vital to this continuation of these stories and must be prioritized in schools. 

Students rely upon their education systems to value one of the oldest forms of communication. Writing offers an oasis from the bombarding reality of electronic communication and presents an opportunity for the writer to interact with their emotions and ideas sans distraction. In doing so, we contribute to a legacy of thinkers and preservers of history. And, we simultaneously become less dependent on Siri’s auto corrections that alter and, in many situations, misconstrue our messages.

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Rhonda Byrd • Apr 28, 2024 at 9:21 am

I love cursive writing! I wonder where do we get a signature from if we are not taught to write in cursive? My children were born in the 2000s and both of them rarely, barely use cursive writing. They only use it for their small signatures. They both relish my hand written notes to them and they both barely can write their names in cursive. They lacked the patience to lear to write in cursive at home because in school they always use computers and laptops. I cherish the days of receiving handwritten notes. 🙂

Anonymous • Nov 6, 2023 at 12:24 pm

I love cursive

Anonymous • Nov 7, 2021 at 9:43 am

It’s much easier to carry a pen or pencil than a lap top and cursive is much faster than printing. It isn’t that difficult to teach and doesn’t take that much time in the classroom. Cursive writing seems to be more personable and individualistic than using any kind of machine.

Anonymous • May 21, 2023 at 3:00 pm

I loved teaching cursive! The students seemed to be excited in learning the skill. Many could put their personal touch to their signature. It seemed to give them their own self.

Historical documents are written in cursive. Can any young adults read them?

How to write in cursive

Step into the realm of timeless elegance with cursive writing. Our comprehensive how to write in cursive alphabet guide helps you unlock the elegance and finesse hidden within each stroke of your pen. Beyond mere pen strokes, cursive writing embodies a fusion of artistry and communication.

Our custom writing service believes this art weaves timeless appeal, with each curve and loop breathing life into your words. So, let’s explore the rhythmic dance of ink on paper, from foundational strokes to elaborate flourishes. Whether you're starting from scratch or aiming to polish your existing handwriting, our journey promises to elevate your script with flair.

Cursive writing - what is it? 

Cursive writing is a unique form of handwriting. It’s characterized by flowing, connected letters, which is the polar opposite of script. This continuous, elegant script dates back centuries and has evolved through various cultural and historical influences. When you write in cursive, it offers distinct advantages, such as: 

• Better writing speed 
• Improved fine motor skills
• Provides a form of self-expression 
• Enhanced memory

Why is mastery of cursive important

Cursive writing holds a profound significance beyond its aesthetic allure. Writing in cursive is an expression of identity. As Dr. Rosemary Sassoon, a handwriting expert, pointed out, “Handwriting is the imprint of self on a page.” Indeed, it's worthwhile to endeavor to refine our cursive penmanship for an added touch of elegance. She echoes what Euclid, an ancient Greek mathematician, said, “Handwriting is a spiritual design, even though it appears by means of a material instrument.” 

Fosters Cognitive Development

Learning how to write in cursive fosters cognitive development. It enhances brain connectivity and fine motor skills by:

• Encourages the brain to foster hand-eye coordination
• Stimulating brain neural pathways associated with language and spatial awareness
• Foster holistic cognitive growth with simple strokes
• Nurtures a stronger sense of patience and better focus

The fluidity of writing in script also encourages seamless thought expression, promoting faster and more efficient writing. Besides, cursive holds historical and cultural value, preserving a tradition of elegant communication that’s been around since time immemorial. 

Cultivates timeless art

In today's digital age, maintaining proficiency in cursive is still very much relevant. Knowing how to write cursive letters apart from print ensures access to handwritten documents and signatures.

Being skilled in elegant cursive writing is critical in various professional and personal contexts. By mastering cursive, you not only cultivate a timeless art but also equip yourself with a versatile tool for effective communication and self-expression.

Cursive writing overview

Before we begin with practical handwriting tips for the cursive alphabet, it’s important to understand what cursive writing is all about. Cursive, a captivating writing style, connects letters with elegant loops.

The primary goal is to make your handwriting flow without lifting the pen. This helps improve writing speed while ensuring the outcome looks beautiful. There are three main types of cursive writing, so let’s take a look at them below: 

The ligature type 

This is one of the simpler forms of how to write in cursive. It’s a cursive type that emphasizes continuous writing without lifting the pen. Its main feature is the distinctive connected lines between letters. Because of its continuous flow without pen elevation, ligature offers a straightforward introduction to cursive writing, making it accessible for beginners aiming to enhance their handwriting fluency and elegance.

The looped type 

This cursive variant lives up to its name because the letters intertwine with loops, seamlessly joining together. Loops define its unique style, making it beautiful and attractive. An essay writing service suggests submitting handwritten exams and papers in this format because it looks elegant and impressive. 

The cursive italic type

Wondering how to write cursive that looks eye-catching? The fancy cursive italic type is the answer. This script was born in the 15th-century Italian Renaissance. This period was characterized by a flourishing of art, culture, and intellectual pursuits.

Hence we can say that era set the stage for the emergence of cursive italic as a hallmark of refined communication and aesthetic sophistication. That’s why it’s no wonder that this cursive style features right-slanting looped and non-looped letters, embodying timeless elegance.

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Writing in cursive first step

Begin your journey into cursive writing by mastering basic strokes. These foundational elements guide the flow and structure of each letter. Start with upward lines, foundational for letters such as "l," "b," and "h."

Progress to learning upward lines for letters like "p," "g," and "j." Practice concave and convex curves, which are essential for letters like "a," "c," and "e." Finally, embrace loops, adding character to letters like "b," "d," and "f." Mastery of these fundamental strokes lays the groundwork for fluent cursive penmanship.

Practice letters and their connections

Mastering cursive writing involves individual letters – learning both upper and lowercase forms with finesse is crucial. You must learn the intricacies of each character, from elegant capitals to minuscules.

It's the only way to seamlessly connect each letter to create an elegant script. This section focuses on mastery of each letter and honing your skills in linking them. We want to help ensure you learn a graceful transition from one letter to the next. Let’s dive right in to elevate your script and ensure it exudes charm. 

Start with lowercase

Begin learning how to write in cursive by practicing lowercase letters. These lowercase ones make up most words and are essential to learn first. Start with simpler ones like "a," "c," "e," and "l." Practice forming each letter correctly and repeatedly to build muscle memory. Keep letter size and proportions consistent. Once comfortable, start combining letters to form simple words, gradually building confidence and fluency in cursive writing.

Learn uppercase

Next, expand your expertise by mastering uppercase cursive letters, adding depth to your cursive skills. These letters often boast unique forms, like loops, curls, or tails. Practice each uppercase letter individually, starting with those resembling their printed counterparts, like "C," "O," "V," and "W," for familiarity.

Familiarize yourself with ligatures such as "th," "ch," and "sh" to enhance your cursive fluency. Gradually, you'll refine your ability to craft uppercase cursive letters with confidence and style. With this skill, you won’t hesitate and ask someone else to write my essay for me when your teacher asks for a handwritten assignment. 

Practice connecting letters

The art of learning how to write cursive letters lies not just in the individual strokes of each character. It’s also important to master their seamless connection. Connecting letters lends cursive writing its signature allure and flowy nature.

Concentrate on crafting smooth transitions between each letter. The key tip is to avoid any disjointedness that disrupts the flow because it’ll make your script look sloppy. Begin by carefully observing and perfecting each transition, starting with common pairs like "o" to "u," "r" to "e," and "a" to "n." Should you require further guidance, feel free to reach out to us for assistance.

Master writing basic words

Forming basic words in cursive writing is a pivotal stage in mastering this skill set. This process combines individual letters and their connections to forge coherent compositions that look elegant. You begin with simple words like “cat,” “dog,” “love”, etc. It would help to utilize a balanced mix of lowercase and uppercase cursive letters. Each of your letters should seamlessly transition into the next, ensuring a harmonious flow. Aim for consistency in the following: 

• Letter size
• Slant of letters
• Character spacing

Paying attention to these details is imperative for uniformity. Prior to penning a word, it would help if you visualize its composition first. This would facilitate smoother execution. Aim to maintain a continuous rhythm by avoiding abrupt directional shifts between letters.

Move on to make longer sentences

When you’ve mastered how to write in cursive for basic words, you can feel confident to progress to longer sentences. Transitioning to this phase in cursive needs a strong foundation. And you’ve got that down pat since you can connect letters to form basic words!

Elevate your skills now by crafting sentences with clear messages, paying attention to letter size, slant, and spacing between words. For better clarity, incorporate punctuation marks like:

• Exclamation points
• Question marks 
• Semi-colons

Ensure a seamless and natural flow throughout your sentences. As you progress, explore different styles by experimenting with letter slants, sizes, and connections, allowing your cursive script to evolve into a personalized expression of your unique style.

Practice your unique cursive style

Once you feel confident in cursive writing, delve into the world of ligatures. These are the graceful connections between specific letter pairs that infuse cursive writing with artistry and charm. Embrace ligatures like "th," "ch," "sh," and "fi," adding sophistication to your script while maintaining proportion and fluidity. 

Then, hone your cursive prowess by mastering a consistent slant. The slang of your penmanship holds power because they provide visual appeal and exude professionalism. You may also experiment with flourishes, transforming ordinary words into elegant works of art with strokes and loops. 

Remember to strike a balance between embellishment and readability. This helps you craft a signature flourish that elevates your cursive writing and gives it its unique stamp that’s just simply “you!” When you feel confident, you can sign your name with ease or learn how to write an essay by hand, which you can feel proud to submit to your professor. 

Now that you’ve become more confident, honing your skills is the next priority. As you continue on this journey, there are some handy tips to help you polish your skills even more.

These tips aren't just about making your handwriting look better—they also make it easier to read and more pro-looking. Try adding them to your practice routine, and you'll see your cursive game step up a notch. Let's dive into these tips together and discover the secrets of how to write cursive letters.

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How to write cursive letters with consistent practice

Mastering how to write cursive letters requires dedication. It’s complex, after all, as each stroke seamlessly connects to create an elegant dance of curves and loops. Daily practice, even for just 10-15 minutes, is key. Customize your schedule to suit your needs, ensuring steady progress toward transforming ordinary words into graceful expressions.

Focus on the basics

Elevate your cursive practice by revisiting foundational strokes. Mastering how to write in cursive includes proficiency in both lowercase and uppercase letters, as well as crafting basic words. 

Position your paper and slant it appropriately, catering to your dominant hand. This personalized approach ensures each practice session maximizes your progress, bringing you closer to mastering the art of having captivating cursive penmanship.

Writing in cursive alphabet, especially with lowercase cursive letters, must be a consistent practice. When you practice writing, practice both lowercase letters as well as uppercase letters until you reach your unique cursive writing style.

Make use of guided worksheets

Enhance your cursive skills with guided worksheets, perfect for beginners or those seeking refinement. Writing in cursive doesn’t have to be daunting with the right tools. Take advantage of them, especially online printable sheets.

These resources provide clear, step-by-step instructions for letter formation, connections, and overall script aesthetics, ensuring a structured approach to mastering the art of elegant handwriting. Make a conscious effort to use worksheets, and you’ll be amazed at your beautiful penmanship.

Cursive writing worksheets can help you master cursive writing by guiding you through basic cursive letterforms for both uppercase and lowercase letters. When you practice writing this way, you'll master consistent letter size, joint writing style and lowercase cursive letters in no time.

Make sure you pay attention to spacing

Mind your spacing! When it comes to cursive writing, proper spacing is crucial for readability and visual appeal. Ample space between words aids clarity. With enough space, you give your readers a chance to decipher your message. They’ll also appreciate the aesthetic flow of your writing with spaces. 

Consistent spacing also lends professionalism to your script, ensuring a polished and refined appearance. Remember to maintain balance in spacing, avoiding overcrowding or excessive gaps between words.

Lowercase letters in the cursive alphabet, like any cursive letter for that matter, require learning cursive writing with apt spacing. Cursive words and cursive sentences have to maintain consistent letter size, and appropriate spacing adds meaning to what you write. Remember to practice regularly!

Always ask for other’s feedback

Do you truly wish to enhance your cursive writing prowess? Then seek feedback! It's very important to seek constructive criticism if you wish to improve. Think: close friends, family, teachers, and mentors. Choose those who genuinely care about you to critique your writing. You can count on trustworthy individuals to provide invaluable insights into your progress. 

Additionally, engaging in self-assessment offers an objective evaluation of your skills. In cursive writing practice, embracing feedback is a catalyst for improvement. Keeping an open mind fosters growth and refinement in your cursive handwriting journey. Make it a point to seek feedback in your practice routine, using it as a roadmap to guide your journey toward mastering the art of cursive writing.

Resist the urge to compare your penmanship with others

Resist the temptation to compare your penmanship with others. Remember that each person's handwriting is unique. Penmanship reflects our individual style and journey. Focus instead on your progress and personal growth when you’re in the process of learning how to write cursive. Don't be discouraged your writing doesn't look like cursive font immediately!

Embrace your own distinct handwriting as a reflection of your personality and creativity. Celebrate your achievements and improvements, recognizing that comparison only hinders your confidence and enjoyment in the art of cursive writing. Always keep in mind that the beauty of cursive lies not in its uniformity but in the diversity of styles and expressions it brings to life.

All cursive letters you write bring you closer to developing your own cursive script with a personal style for capital letters, curved stroke, individual words, upward stroke and other letters in the cursive letters family. Make sure you have a relaxed grip, proper posture, plain paper or lined paper, and a positive attitude!

Learn to Write Cursive

Everything you need to know about cursive in a free online course..

If you can write, you can take this course.

It doesn’t matter if you have terrible handwriting or never learned cursive in school, you can learn to write cursive. Consistent Cursive uses a systematic approach to teaching cursive so that you start with the most basic concepts and forms before tackling more complex ones.

Get Started Now!

Download the course worksheets and start by watching the first video of the course.

Improve Your Handwriting Like These Students

44 videos and over 5.5 hours of course content for FREE!

Course Intro – Welcome Course Intro – Download the Worksheets Course Intro – Supplies Course Intro – Create a Before Sample Lesson 1 – Body Position Lesson 2 – Pen Grip Lesson 3 – Paper Position Lesson 4 – The Cursive Grid Lesson 5 – What is Consistency? Lesson 6 – What does it mean to learn cursive? Lesson 7 – Letterforms: Intro Lesson 8 – Letterforms: i, u, w Note – How to Practice Common Problems – The Connective Slant Lesson 9 – Letterforms: e Lesson 10 – Letterforms: O, A, C Lesson 11 – Letterforms: o, a, c Lesson 12 – Letterforms: E, D Lesson 13 – Letterforms: m, n, x, v Lesson 14 – Letterforms: r, s Lesson 15 – Letterforms: P, B, R

Lesson 16 – Letterforms: t, d, p Lesson 17 – Letterforms: J, I Lesson 18 – Letterforms: l, b, h, k Lesson 19 – Letterforms: H, K Lesson 20 – Letterforms: q, f Lesson 21 – Letterforms: N, M Lesson 22 – Letterforms: W, X Lesson 23 – Letterforms: j, g, y, z Lesson 24 – Letterforms: T, F, S Lesson 25 – Letterforms: L, G Lesson 26 – Letterforms: V, U, Y Lesson 27 – Letterforms: Q, Z Lesson 28 – Letterforms: Figures Bonus – Lowercase Variations Bonus – Capital Variations Project – Create with Cursive Wrap-Up – Create an After Sample Wrap-Up – What’s Next? Note – Contact Me Bonus – Spacing between letters & words Bonus – Writing across the page Bonus – Developing individual style Bonus – How to write faster

Or start by downloading the worksheets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is 100% free. If you’d like, you can show support by paying what you like when you download the worksheets .

The ability to write by hand is the only prerequisite. Young children will probably need the help of an adult to make it through the course.

The course could be completed in a week or months, depending on your skill level and commitment. Feel free to go at your own pace.

The course teaches a standard American cursive script, rooted in the tradition of American penmanship. The forms are similar to “Business Penmanship” or “Palmer Method”. The arm-writing approach of Palmer Method is not covered in this course, however, this course is a great start if you want to learn Palmer Method. You can learn more about The Palmer Method at ThePalmerMethod.com .

Everything about writing cursive is the same for left-handers as it is for right-handers, except for how you position your hand and body relative to the writing. In the lesson on paper position, I speak directly to the left-handers and provide a method for writing that will allow you to execute the cursive forms without smudging your writing.

Cursive is a very practical style of writing that holds significance in American culture. Cursive handwriting is seen as more mature, professional, and beautiful than print or manuscript writing. Technically, cursive is a flowing script that many find conducive to taking notes or getting thoughts down on the page.

Consistent Cursive is a free and comprehensive course for learning cursive. It uses a systematic approach that anyone can follow to learn cursive. Start learning cursive right now by watching the first video .

Your Instructor

Consistent Cursive was created by David DiGiovanni, aka Perfect Biscuits on YouTube. David has spent countless hours studying American penmanship since 2016, focusing on practical scripts like cursive. He has posted over 100 videos on YouTube teaching cursive.

David also studies and teaches the traditional method of writing called, “muscular movement” (aka Palmer Method), where the arm is used to write cursive script. Consistent Cursive does not teach muscular movement, but is a great first step towards learning it. You can learn more about muscular movement at ThePalmerMethod.com .

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A Brief History of Cursive Writing

Since letters have been invented, people have looked for ways to write them more swiftly. Scribes writing on clay tablets developed a more fluid form of writing that served as an early cursive in Mesopotamia.

The cursive writing we recognize today started developing in Europe the 16 th century. Connecting letters with loops and tails seemed to grow increasingly more uniform across languages as education became more available to the citizens of those nations. Instruction was made more simply by the invention of textbooks printed using a special copper plate. Students could trace the preprinted letters with their quill pens. The resulting form of writing was simply referred to as copperplate.

For a great example of copperplate writing, look no further than the U.S. Constitution.

Copperplate served as both a simple, functional script and as something that could be made to look fancy for special ceremonial papers. As literacy was far from universal, and the need for legible handwriting was great, copperplate writing was considered something of an art form to be seriously studied. Reading and writing was no small task in the 17 th , 18 th and 19 th centuries. Penmanship was critical.

The many forms of cursive writing in the centuries to follow evolved out of copperplate. Around 1840, a man named Platt Rogers Spencer believed it was important to make handwriting a true art form unlike those attempts that preceded him. A master craftsman in the art of handwriting Mr. Spencer developed his own variation of cursive that required dedicated training and skill to master its swirls and embellishments. The Spencerian method became the official writing style of government and corporate documents from around 1850 to 1925. Whole schools and textbooks were developed to teach this writing style around the country. The need for the super-flexible nibs most vintage pen collectors refer to today as “wet noodles” were essential for the modulating lines of Spencerian script that grew from extra fine to double and triple broad to accentuate a circle and add weight to the elements of each letter’s formation.

Today you can still see great examples of Spencerian script in classic century-old American brands such as Ford’s and Coca-Cola’s logos.

As elegant and beautiful as Spencerian script was, it was also time consuming and difficult to master. American business in the 19 th century moved at a surprisingly fast clip by even today’s standards, and the Spencer method of writing was too slow for the needs of offices around the country. To keep up with the newly invented typewriter, secretaries, stenographers and many other white-collar workers needed a faster way to write.

In 1888, Austin Norman Palmer came to the rescue with his own method of writing. What became known as the Palmer Method caught on quickly for its legibility and ease of use. Most of the cursive writing we learned in school is, or was, based on the Palmer method.

Although Palmer method textbooks ceased publication in 1980, the very similar Zaner-Bloser method of cursive writing remains popular to this day. Developed in 1891, the Zaner-Bloser school realized the value in becoming a powerhouse in textbook publication for their handwriting and remain one of the top sources of handwriting instruction in schools across the country to this day.

In 1978, the D’Nealian handwriting method tried to breakdown the Palmer method into simpler steps to teach little kids how to write in cursive. It too remains popular, although my quick imperfect research into this piece seems to have found that the Zaner-Bloser method seems to dominate what is left of the industry to teach our youngsters how to write in cursive.

For much more detailed information about the history of handwriting and to learn how to master copperplate, Spencerian script, the Palmer Method and other forms of handwriting, visit The International Association of Master Penmen, Engravers and Teachers of Handwriting. The IAMPETH is an incredible resource for all of your handwriting needs.

Click here to be linked to their website: http://www.iampeth.com/.

Coming soon: Quick Tips for Taking Your Handwriting to the Next Level

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• How to Write in Cursive: Basic Guidelines With...

How to Write in Cursive: Basic Guidelines With Examples

Cursive writing may appear to be an example of a past period in an era dominated by digital communication. However, its significance remains. Both students and graduates stand to gain from learning this ageless ability. 

Even as much of writing has gone digital, cursive writing still has a role, whether in making lists, taking notes, or producing essays. It expresses the essence of uniqueness and communication with a touch of polished creativity in only a few strokes.

What is Cursive Writing?

Most individuals consider cursive writing as just letter production. It is the best method of cognitive training. Cursive letters allow learners, especially children, to develop words seamlessly, creating a cohesive and ordered written communication style. 

As young brains trace cursive letters' graceful curves and loops, they strengthen brain connections. This, in turn, improves memory recall, increases cognitive agility, and stimulates activity along neural pathways in children's minds, all of which contribute considerably to their mental growth.

Exploring the Timeless Significance of Cursive Writing

Learning cursive writing offers both cognitive and practical advantages. These are some of the benefits of learning cursive.

• It enhances brain development by stimulating neural connections between language and memory.
• Cursive writing offers faster and more efficient writing relevant to taking notes and completing assignments.
• It creates better and more legible handwriting through a continuous flow of letters.
• It is an effective way of signature development.
• Learners gain improved spelling and writing skills.
• Cursive writing makes learners distinct when expressing their skills.

Although acemyhomework often does not write in cursive, we have provided this guideline since we believe it is an essential skill for all learners.

Techniques of Cursive Writing

Learning cursive writing requires considering essential attributes. Learners should understand the position of every character or letter. Understanding the positions of letters is a crucial element in cursive writing.

The shape of every letter is also crucial. Every cursive letter has a unique method of writing it. Cursive writing is a traditional method used globally before the introduction of the computer era. 

Learning Cursive adds an impressive skill to your resume, which has a positive impression on others, especially the experts.

Some cursive letters contain loops at the bottom or top of a specific letter. The loops add a distinctive and decorative quality to the writing style. A variation in the loop enhances the uniqueness of every cursive letter.

When learning effective writing methods in cursive, begin by learning the fundamental principles of letter positioning. Each letter requires individual practice. It allows for easy connectivity, shaping, and flow between letters. Now, let’s dig more deeply into how to write cursive letters.

Step-by-Step Guide on Cursive Writing

Step 1: start with basic cursive alphabet.

Learners should create a solid foundation for learning the fundamentals of cursive writing. This helps to grasp the essential requirements of the art before captivating its critical journey. It’s necessary to begin by studying and learning the regular alphabet before proceeding to the cursive alphabet. 

Practicing the regular alphabet helps learners understand how each letter is shaped. This is relatable to mapping before venturing into the actual adventure. Starting with basic alphabets helps you understand the simple connections between letters. 

It also allows you to notice how letters change from regular to cursive. Once you are ready with the fundamentals, you can write in turns and twists of cursive letters.

Step 2: Select the Correct Tools for Cursive Writing

Choosing the correct tools is like selecting a perfect workmate. Find a good pen or a pencil that will write smoothly on the paper. Fine tools will help you create neat and controlled cursive lines. Writing adventures requires a perfect writing tool with a fine point. 

It would be best if you were not afraid of trying different writing tools until you locate the best to help you complete the assignment. Sharp-pointed tools help to make the writing journey more comfortable and enjoyable.

Step 3: Perfect your Grip

Getting a grip in cursive requires holding a pen at a right angle for smooth moves. Having your pen in cursive relates to how you obtain your posture in a game. The pen or a pencil should be between your index finger and the thumb. Support the writing tool with your middle finger. 

It’s always a collaborative effort, as the three fingers should work together. You should also maintain a comfortable grip. Ensure it’s not too high or loose to ensure your writing flor effortlessly. A relaxed grasp is a key to producing effortless cursive motions. So, remember to enhance a recommendable spot on how you hold your pen to begin writing in cursive. 

Step 4: Start Writing in Lowercase

Concentrate with lowercase when you commence cursive writing. Start with the most essential letter, like “u,” to more complex. Continue with letters like x, y, u, m, n, r, s, t, b, f, h, j, k, l. This helps to keep the motivation. Lowercase letters are easily understood because they are formed with a single stroke. Most of these letters fit in between the upper and the lower lines. 

The secret behind quality writing involves starting with the simplest cursives with a single stroke before proceeding to more complex letters. However, complexity in writing cursive letters consists of the shape, not the number of strokes. 

Practicing Lowercase Cursive Letters

Practice writing “a.”  Begin by writing a curved stroke from the bottom line upward to the dotted line. Then, rock inwards to form a slanted “o” shape of “a.” Ensure the top part of “o” is touching the dotted line. This process is evident in mastering the unique form of the cursive letter “a,” as shown below.

Write curved “c”.  To write an excellent curved letter c, initiate an upward stroke to the dotted line. The stroke should be curved to the right. Rock backward to create a slanted “o.” However, you should complete the stroke below the dotted line rather than closing the o.

Practice writing “e”.  Place the pen on the bottom line and draw a stroke upwards. Then, draw a downward curve behind the upward stroke. Complete drawing letter “e” by extending a downward stroke slightly above the bottom line.

Practice “i.”  writing cursive letters; “i” is the simplest. Start by stroking upwards from the bottom line to the dotted line. Without removing the pen from the bar, redraw the line downward from the dotted line to the bottom line. End the letter by placing a single dot above the drawn letter.

Practice “n”.  Start by drawing an upward stroke from the bottom line to the dotted line. Without raising the pen, draw a downward stroke to the lower line. Continue by upward stroke to the dotted line, curve to the right, and downwards. Finish with a short turn to the right.

Write cursive “m”.  The letter “m” follows similar steps with n. However, when drawing a downward curve, continue by drawing another upward line to the dotted line and finish with a low angle to the right.

Step 5: Write in Uppercase

Writing in uppercase is only recommended when the learner is well-equipped with lowercase letters. Uppercase letters include a difference in size and form. Unlike the lowercase letters, which draw to the middle dotted line, uppercase letters vary in height, weight, and complete structure. 

Every uppercase letter has a unique design, creating a distinct challenge for cursive writers. C, E, G, L, and O are the most recommended uppercase letters. Learners should also consider learning R despite being the hardest to design. Other examples of complex letters include B, D, P, T, and J.

Examples of Uppercase Cursive Letters

Write the letter “A.”  Designing an uppercase letter “A” follows a similar procedure to writing a lowercase cursive letter a. However, it touches the upper and lower lines, unlike the lowercase “a,” which is designed between the lower and the broken pipe.

Begin by drawing a stroke from the top line downwards to the bottom line. Create a curve and loop it to the line to create an oval. 

Try writing “B.”  Cursive letter B differs from lowercase b. Start by drawing a slanting stroke from the upper to the lower line. Make a rounded line on the right from the top line to the broken line. Extend it from the middle broken line to the bottom line.

Try typing “O’.  Uppercase O follows the same procedure as its lowercase digit. The difference only occurs due to the space that the two occupy. The upper one occupies the larger space from the bottom to the upper line of the paper. Begin with a small loop from the upper to the lower line following the right-hand side direction.

Practice “E.”  An uppercase cursive “E” is a mirror reflection of letter 3. Begin by creating a little vertical loop extending down from the top line. To make the capital cursive letter "E," start by bending to the left to create a giant vertical loop that extends slightly over the dotted line.

Form a tiny loop over the dotted line, then curve downward to form a broader loop that touches the bottom line. Finally, raise the bottom circle to slightly over the bottom line.

Design “L”.  To practice the cursive letter "L," make a loop to the right, slightly below the dotted line. Curve the loop upward until it rests on the top line. Then, extend the stroke downward to the left until you reach the bottom line. Then, draw a little loop to the right, developing the stroke to slope slightly below the bottom line. 

This sequence combines upward and downward strokes to form the distinct and attractive shape of the cursive letter "L." Practice these moves to improve your ability to write this capital cursive letter.

Step 6: Choose a Cursive Font Type

Cursive writing incorporates different font types. Learners are free to choose from any font type they are comfortable with.  This helps to maintain consistency for the entire practice period. Examples of the cursive font types include:

• Aguafina Script Pro
• Columbine Light
• Kuenstler Script
• Fancier Script
• Lavender Script

However, students are not limited to these font types. One can study different fonts since they are popularly applicable in other word processors like Microsoft Word.

Step 7: Practice Regularly

Perfecting the skill requires enough practice. It would be best to dedicate a few hours to practicing cursive writing to master the skill effectively. For instance, you can spend about 30 minutes a day studying the alphabet and then proceeding to practice it. Ensure you have got the lowercase letters before moving to the uppercase. 

With perfect skills, you will have a smooth time writing cursive letters. Practicing more often makes one more creative in writing cursive letters, words, and sentences.

Tips for Effective Writing Cursive Letters

• Always start with lowercase letters if you are new to cursive writing.
• Proceed to uppercase after mastering the lowercase exercises.
• Once you have mastered the cursive alphabet, try copying and tracing the letters to improve your skills.
• Ensure your work is neat when joining letters.
• Ensure you use a specific font to avoid confusion.
• Practice basic letters with a single stroke like ‘o’ and ‘u.’ This will motivate you to proceed to more complex words if you can trace the basic ones.
• Ensure correct positioning of the writing tools to avoid losing track.
• Consider using lined paper at a beginner level. This makes it easy to trace the upper and lowercase letters.

To Wrap Up.

There are definitely more than several ways to improve your cursive penmanship. By writing, you can express emotion with handwriting which is not possible with digital text. One can produce an elegant and readable cursive script by focusing on the basic requirements of appropriate letter formation, maintaining a consistent slant, and linking letters fluently.

Keeping posture and grip in mind improves the entire writing experience. It is vital to recognize cursive writing as a valued talent that not only provides a personal touch to communication but also promotes fine motor skills and cognitive development. Good luck with your writing!

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Cursive writing may appear to be an example of a past period in an era dominated by digital communication. However, its significance remains. Both students and graduates stand to g...

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Teaching Cursive!

     This Method Works

Author Biography

After thirty-six years teaching elementary students Linda Corson wanted to share her highly successful method of teaching cursive writing. This book is the culmination of techniques that evolved over those years.  Students left class with penmanship that carried them through higher education and on to successful careers.  Concerned with the plight of cursive writing, she volunteer tutors at Bend, Oregon elementary schools, holds workshops on her method and helps her homeschooling grandchildren.

Why Write in Cursive: Top 12 Reasons to Practice Cursive Writing

Why write in cursive? Learn the benefits of writing in cursive to develop your motor skills and more in our guide.

Cursive writing is a form of handwriting where all the letters in a word are connected. In America, cursive writing began in the 1840s when Platt Rogers Spencer from New York formulated a program to teach this type of penmanship to students. Since then, writing experts have developed various cursive styles until the advancement of technology and changes in the modern educational curriculum.

Its many advantages made it a standard in the educational system. However, after the arrival of the printing press and more modern devices, only 21 states in America mandate cursive writing in their curriculum today. Despite these drastic changes, cursive writing’s benefits remain.

Top 12 Reasons to Start Writing in Cursive

1. it’s good for your brain, 2. to be a speedy writer, 3. to improve your sensory and motor skills, 4. to connect with the past and earn a living, 5. to have a high-quality signature, 6. to reduce mistakes in positioning letters, 7. to inspire creativity, 8. to follow writing rules, 9. to be good at spelling, 10. to read cursive handwriting, 11. to increase memory retention, 12. to improve self-discipline and self-confidence.

Professor Virginia Berninger notes that producing a letter in handwriting requires a series of finger strokes versus typing on a keyboard where one just presses the keys. These finger movements activate not only the thinking part of the brain but also the regions involved in language and memory. Cursive writing promotes synchronicity between the brain’s right (creativity and spatial ability) and left (speech and comprehension) hemispheres. 

Print handwriting requires more time to produce a letter to accommodate the stopping and lifting of the pen after each stroke. For example, if you want to write the word “kite,” the letter “k” alone will make you lift your hand two or three times. Meanwhile, in cursive writing, all the letters are connected, reducing the frequency of pen lifting. Increasing your writing speed is critical for taking notes when speakers such as teachers dictate vital information.

Cursive writing is one of the most powerful techniques to improve sensory and motor skills. Writing in cursive requires proper position, grip, angle, and pressure to control the pen and efficiently write on paper. Moreover, it also demands good motor planning to preserve fluid movement in creating each letter from all directions.

With continuous practice, you will master not only cursive writing but also develop fine motor skills essential in performing various tasks such as tying shoes, copying words, and reading. It’s why children as early as four years old are encouraged to write in cursive.

Since the creation of the typewriter, cursive letters are usually only seen in legal documents or invitations to formal events. This is why it’s not surprising for young people to think of cursive writing as “old-school writing.”

Some believe cursive writing is obsolete, but that is not the case. The dwindling penchant for cursive doesn’t remove the talent students can develop upon learning this handwriting style. Moreover, those who dedicate time to learning cursive are hired to create crafty pieces for special celebrations.

Like looking at antique paintings or photographs, cursive writing awakens a nostalgic appreciation for art. To boost their impact, clients request writers to turn their heartfelt letters into beautiful cursive to demonstrate sincerity to a loved one. Some employ cursive writers to produce important card invitations such as those used in weddings or corporate events.

If you’re unsatisfied with your current signature, practicing cursive writing will upgrade your signing of papers. Today, most people only use cursive when signing legal documents or bank checks above the printed name. However, there are cases where a person’s signature is deemed invalid, even if there’s no fraud involved.

When you sign legal documents, you should feel confident doing so. Any wrong stroke or uncertainty will automatically invalidate the signature while you scribble on the papers. Practicing cursive improves your confidence in signing documents to enhance legitimacy through clear quality and smooth strokes.

Print handwriting is not advisable for people with focus and attention problems and learning disabilities such as dyslexia and dysgraphia. They need help distinguishing between certain letters, such as b, d, p, and q, which often leads to incorrect writing. People with these disabilities can more easily recognize cursive letters, reducing errors. 

Amanda Stedke from the Zaner-Bloser company, which has hosted national handwriting contests for 30 years, identified cursive writing as the earliest method to bring out children’s creativity. Regardless of how you write, cursive writing boosts creativity by generating new ideas and finding innovative ways to solve problems. Learning and practicing different cursive styles allows you to find ingenious ways to write concepts born from imagination.

Cursive writing has many cognitive benefits, such as being an effective meditation technique to calm the mind. Activities like calligraphy also activate different parts of the brain to work together.

There are different styles available for writing in cursive, such as:

• New American Style – It’s the easiest style with no complicated strokes. All letters are in italic.
• D’Nealian Handwriting – The hooks at the tails of each letter are connected to form a word.
• Zane-Bloser Cursive Writing – It combines the new American style and D’Nealian handwriting.
• Handwriting Without Tears – It’s designed with minimal continuous strokes that almost look like print handwriting.
• Spencerian – It’s an elegant cursive penmanship commonly used in formal and business writing , such as certificates and invitations.
• Palmer Method – It’s simple, standard business penmanship that uses muscular arm movements rather than fingers.

Each style has rules, such as the correct order and spacing between each letter. Learning and applying these rules to cursive writing makes the piece easier to read. They also create smoother handwriting from the continuous flow of each letter, unlike print script, which sometimes has different sizes and doesn’t follow correct capitalization.

Writing in cursive also helps you become better at spelling through muscle memory. As you write, the hand’s movement sends signals that form a visual of the letter in the human brain. Because the brain has memorized the letter’s form, recognizing the letters that complete a word becomes easier. 

It’s like learning how to play the piano, where remembering the correct pattern of hand movements is essential. By constantly repeating the right cursive movements, you unconsciously learn and store the correct spelling patterns of each word in your memory.

Some people have sloppy cursive that is usually the product of speedy writing . You can see this skill in secretaries, doctors, lawyers, and other busy professionals. You’ll have better chances of reading and understanding their notes if you write in cursive. 

Additionally, if you’re a beginner practicing your cursive and using it to make your notes, there’s a chance that you scribbled too fast and can’t read what you wrote. Especially if you’re unfamiliar with the subject, you will need help deciphering the writing. So, it’s best to write in cursive and continuously improve your reading ability.

Handwriting increases memory recall as there is more brain activity when information is physically written on paper. Studies show that cursive writing lets the brain take in more information and prepare it with the optimal conditions for learning.

Students taught cursive but didn’t practice it regularly tend to forget this skill. Learning cursive requires patience and self-discipline to push through with their practice. These practices are necessary to develop motor skills and master hand-eye coordination to upgrade your cursive writing continuously. 

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We made the cursive generator because it is amazing that there are so few cursive fonts. Many schools even stopped teaching cursive (it is thankfully making a comeback , however). Cursive fonts are also not part of any standardized font sets, making it difficult to copy and paste. It's super simple to use our cursive generator tool. Just follow these steps: First, start typing some text in the input box above. Next, choose from one of the 8 fonts by selecting different boxes at the top of the page. Finally, you can save or view your text so you can take it with you. You can also take a screenshot or try to copy and paste

Can I copy and Paste this text

Yes and no. Does that answer your question, LOL?! So, you can absolutely highlight the text field, copy it, and try to paste the font in another program such as Word. However, unless the font style is installed in the program that you are pasting to, it will paste as default font style. The fonts listed with the Google Logo (G) will copy and paste into Google Docs, Sheets and perhaps many more places. The fonts listed with the Microsoft Word logo (W) will copy and paste into Microsoft Word, and perhaps other places. Again it depends on which fonts are installed in the application. Of course you can always add a font to an application like MS Word. There is a set of "web safe fonts" - fonts that are standardized across devices and browsers and software so that the fonts can be cross compatible. Unfortunately, as of 2019/2020 there are no cursive fonts on that unoffical list.

Cursive fonts in microsoft word

If you are looking for cursive fonts that are ALREADY in Microsoft word, we recommend the following: 1) Lucida Handwriting 2) Mistral 3) Segoe Script If you are looking to share your file, we recommend converting it to a PDF so the font style stays in place. Good luck!

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Schools Don't Teach Cursive Anymore Because AI Can't Read It?

The claim also suggests that writing in cursive "connects neural pathways that are only connected in this way.", published july 1, 2024.

About this rating

In the past 20 years, whether schools should teach cursive writing has been frequently debated: In the mid-2000s and 2010s, cursive writing was largely discontinued in favor of typing skills. However, the practice has come back in the last decade. As of writing, 24 states have laws requiring students to learn cursive. Meanwhile, there are plenty of tools that can read cursive handwriting with relatively high accuracy, not all of which rely on artificial intelligence.

In mid-June 2024, posts advocating for cursive writing began appearing on social media sites, including Facebook , Instagram and X . The posts, shared using the same language , claimed that schools had stopped teaching children how to write in cursive in an effort to restrict freedom of thought. As the post puts it, "they" stopped teaching cursive " because it was compact, elegant, clear writing. Because it connects neural pathways that are only connected in this way. And because AI cannot read it."

Have you ever wondered why they don't teach kids to write in cursive anymore?" And no, it's not a coincidence that they tend to use it less and less. Writing in cursive means translating thoughts into words; it forces you not to take your hand off the paper. A thought-stimulating effort, that allows you to associate ideas, tie them and put them into relation. Not by any chance the word cursive comes from the Latin «currere», which runs, which flows, because the thought is winged, runs, flies. Of course cursive has no place in today's world, a world that does its best to slow down the development of thought, to stuff it. Think that cursive was born in Italy and then spread all over the world. Why ? Because it was compact, elegant, clear writing. Because it connects neural pathways that are only connected in this way. And because AI cannot read it.

As with many widely-shared copypasta posts, there is a lot of information to unpack, and not all of it is relevant to the conjecture at hand. By largely discarding the flowery prose defending cursive in the middle of the post, we can simplify the claim into two facts we can then examine. First, that children do not learn how to write in cursive anymore, and second, that artificial intelligence cannot read cursive. Both of these statements are false.

Many Kids Still Learn Cursive

In the United States, school curriculum is set at the state level, not at the federal level. For a long time, cursive writing was a part of state curricula across the country because it was considered the traditional way to write. But with the arrival of home computers and the internet, some people began questioning whether it was worth teaching.

In 2010, in an effort to standardize the education curriculum across state lines, 41 states signed on to the Common Core State Standards Initiative . Cursive writing did not make the cut, and typing skills largely replaced it. But even before then, cursive was slowly being phased out of elementary school curricula across the nation — ask people between the ages of 10 and 25 years old to write in cursive, and there's a decent chance they'll struggle. In fact, former Harvard University President Drew Gilpin Faust opened her 2022 article in The Atlantic about the topic with a story in which two-thirds of the students in a history seminar she was teaching said they couldn't read or write cursive.

The backlash to Common Core's cursive cut was immediate. Faust referenced cursive defenders calling for its reinstatement in major publications, including The Atlantic and The New York Times , less than a year after Common Core's 2011 implementation.

It didn't take that long for cursive to come back in vogue, either. Mycursive.com , a blog dedicated to teaching cursive, maintains a list of states that require cursive to be taught in schools. In 2016 , just 14 states had such laws on the books. In the next eight years , that number jumped to 24.

In other words, many kids do still learn cursive across the United States, although it's certainly less common than it was 30 years ago.

Computers Can Read Cursive Handwriting

The second problem with the claim is that, in fact, computers can read and decipher cursive handwriting, even without the use of large language models (artificial intelligence).

As just one example, anyone with an iPhone running higher than iOS 15 ( released in 2021 ) can scan handwritten and cursive notes using the phone camera . Snopes tested this feature using two cursive handwriting samples to see how well it worked.

First, we ran it with relatively neat cursive that read "The quick brown fox jumped over the lazy dog," chosen because it contains every letter in the alphabet. The scan returned the text with just two mistakes — "fox" became "sop" (we admit, we're not sure how this happened) and the finishing flourish on the "g," in "dog" became an extra "s."

Second, we ran it with more "human" (read: sloppy) cursive that read "This is a test to see if Artificial Intelligence can read cursive handwriting." The scan returned the text as follows: "This is a toot to sce e Artificial dintelligence can read cursive bantwate." Certainly not great, but not that bad either! A person given the original message would likely be able to correct the typos without too much difficulty.

So while there are some problems and issues, there are absolutely pieces of technology that can interpret cursive handwriting.

One Final Note

When the message describes the origin of the word "cursive," (from the latin currere, meaning to run), it does so as follows: «currere». This is enough to practically confirm that this message was written by someone whose first language isn't English. Most written languages across the world use quotation marks. However, depending on the language in question, the style of those marks will change, generally using one of the following three styles.

First, there is the style used in German: „the leading quotation mark is on the bottom and the ending quotation mark is on top.“

This style is also common in many languages spoken in central Europe, like Croatian, Czech and Polish.

Second, there is the style used in English: "two quotation marks for the Americans," and 'one quotation mark for the Brits.'

This style is also commonly found outside of Europe. It's used in Indian languages such as Hindi and Tamil, as well as in Brazilian Portuguese and many languages spoken in Southeast Asia, such as Vietnamese or Thai.

Third, there is the style used in French: the double chevrons, called «les guillemets» in French.

This style is used in Romance languages, including Spanish, French and Italian. It's also used in Greek, Arabic, and many languages spoken in former Soviet states, including Russian, Ukranian, Belarussian, Kazakh, Armenian and Azerbaijani.

Given the presence of the guillemet quotation marks, Snopes suspects the post was written by someone whose first language also uses that quotation style.

By Jack Izzo

Jack Izzo is a Chicago-based journalist and two-time "Jeopardy!" alumnus.

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Home > Honors College > Honors Theses > 3107

Honors Theses

The impact of cursive writing requirement on reading: a survey of young adults.

Alexa Williams Follow

Date of Award

Winter 12-9-2023

Document Type

Undergraduate Thesis

Communication Sciences and Disorders

First Advisor

Vishakha Rawool

Second Advisor

Hyejin Park

Third Advisor

Relational format.

The requirement of cursive writing has become debatable since the adoption of the Common Core State Standards, which sets academic expectations in the areas of English Language Arts and Mathematics from Kindergarten through Grade 12. In the Common Core State Standards, the requirement of cursive writing was omitted, but some states have passed bills to teach cursive believing that the skill is beneficial. This study evaluated the experience of learning how to read and write in print and cursive and its effect on reading.

213 participants ranging from 18 to 40 years of age participated in the research. One hundred sixty-five participants identified as female, 41 identified as male, and five identified as non-binary/third gender . Of the respondents, 138 indicated they were required to learn cursive in their school, 60 did not have to learn cursive, and the remaining 15 individuals did not respond to the related question.

Participants completed a 24-question online, anonymous survey covering demographic information, language background, self-reported reading and writing abilities, personal experiences, and opinions about cursive writing.

Descriptive Statistics were used to summarize data collected using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and other types of questions. Mann-Whitney U tests were conducted to explore differences in the data among the requirement of cursive writing requirements. Furthermore, Related-Samples Friedman's Two-Way Analysis of Variance by Ranks was utilized to investigate potential significant variations.

The study found that the requirement of learning cursive did not significantly affect reported abilities in reading print, writing print, or communication but did improve reading and writing cursive skills. There was no indication to suggest that learning cursive has a significant impact on improving reading efficiency, reading speed, or reading accuracy; there was indication that individuals required to learn cursive may have increased confidence in their reading skills.

Recommended Citation

Williams, Alexa, "The Impact of Cursive Writing Requirement on Reading: A Survey of Young Adults" (2023). Honors Theses . 3107. https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/3107

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