My penmanship stinks. Now, I'm in HS and I'm wondering...how can I improve my handwriting?

Question

Here's the problem: I love English and History, I'm in Honors for each doing very well except when I get an essay test or I have to take notes. So, I am wondering how do I improve my handwriting?

However, it's not a problem for HW...I type it.

Answer 1

When you take notes, you write fast because you are trying to get down the note before the professor says something else you need to write down, and then you'll miss it. And the best way to improve your handwriting is to write slower. So. Is there anything you can do?

Learn to write shorter notes. Grab a key word or two that will trigger your memory, and write it. Print it, even, if that will help. (Many techies I know never write cursive at all; printing is their writing.)

My Steve had a somewhat rare neurological disorder that meant he did not write fast. The details don't matter. Anyway, as a result, he worked double-hard on developing his memory. He found that a very few key words were enough to trigger his memory of the actual sound of the professor's voice as he made the point that Steve had wanted to get into his notebook. Then, when he re-read his notes, he might add another word or two to tie it all up.

Answer 2

You might try taking a calligraphy course through a local art school, evening high school, university extension etc. While you wouldn't want to use calligraphy, practicing making letterforms as art should flow over into your daily use. Or perhaps industrial technology still teaches lettering in their drafting courses, if CAD hasn't totally taken over.

As the other poster said, don't try to take copious notes--take slow clear notes of only the most important points--and ask your friends if you can copy their notes, or work together with your friends to create a complete set of notes. If no one is desparately trying to get every word down, among 3 or 4 of you, you will be able to create a great summary of the lecture! This is not cheating, it is forming a study group and collaborating so that each of you is better able to individually process the material. (most successful college students and law students work this way...)

Answer 3

Anyone Can Improve Their Handwriting ( CD ROM Movie)
By Jason Alster MSc
Handwriting is a tool for transfer of knowledge and must comply with acquired rules in order to understand what we read. The CD ROM deals with handwriting problems, rules, tips, and exercises. From students who have lower grades and self esteem to physicians who by law have to improve their writing- this CD can help. Based on 10 years experience helping ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia - Jason knows what works to improve your handwriting. Simple techniques, demonstrations - a new way of helping people of all ages improve their handwriting and be proud of their own " work of art"

Product Details

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/9659025173/

CD-ROM:
Publisher: Rainbow Cloud (July 20, 2006)
ISBN: 9659025173

Also :Creative Painting For The Young Artist a book teaching the artistic mode of seeing necessary for dysgraphics to learn to paint and draw, painting block, and students who want to be creative with art. An excellent compliment to Anyone Can Improve Their Handwriting.

Amazon.com
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/9659025122/
Also check out these by Jason if there is a concentration or ADHD problem associated with the poor handwriting.
"BEING IN CONTROL:Natural Techniques For Increasing Your Potential And Creativity For Success In School."
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/9659025114/
"Being In Control : Natural Solutions For ADHD Dyslexia and Test Anxiety'.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/9659025130/

Answer 4

Be calm and cool and don't rush your writing. This may be difficult but I find that whenever I'm pressed for time, there goes the handwriting...

Answer 5

Practice, Practice , Practice!!!