With the technology that is all around us, writing is easier than ever. Microsoft Word, Google Docs – our options are numerous. However, devices mean that we text or type, rather than writing by hand. This can be very efficient, but handwriting is still important. The tactile nature of handwriting can connect us to reality, when we are being further removed from the medium and the messages they convey.
Handwriting also helps with hand-to-eye coordination. Our fine motor skills can degrade if we stop using our hands. Handwriting is necessary in maintaining and improving our hand-to-eye coordination. If we don’t use our hands, our muscles degenerate, and it is time-consuming and often painful to have to relearn to write by hand. Handwriting can also help us to think through our ideas and brainstorm. A 2019 study from the University of Tashkent found that ‘handwriting, and in particular the automaticity of letter production, appears to facilitate higher order composing processes by freeing up working memory to deal with the complex tasks of planning, organizing, revising and regulating the production of text.’[1]
Writing notes by hand helps students to retain memory and process information more effectively. The action of writing on paper imprints information on your brain and is more effective than reading or writing on a screen. You’ll also miss less information if you write. So, whether you are a student or an academic professional, doing part of your work by hand, or keeping a journal or diary, can really benefit your thinking and writing skills. Tell us in the comments how this article has helped you and let us know what you would like to hear about next!
Until next time,
The Wordwise team
[1] J. Shaturaev, “The Importance of Handwriting in Education,” International Journal of Advanced Research 7, no. 12 (2019): 951.
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