5 tips for improving your handwriting

Handwriting thank you cards, business memos and holiday cards can give a unique personal touch to any occasion, but in order for the recipient to receive your thoughtful sentiment, they must be able to read it. Handwriting can no doubt have an impact on the person who reads your card. For instance, messy handwriting may signify disorganization in a thank you note to a potential employer. If you need some pointers for making your handwriting more legible, we’ve got a few tips for you:

1. Choose a writing utensil that works for you
If you have messy handwriting, the utensil that you’re using may be to blame. Make sure that the pen or pencil you choose is comfortable to write with and makes smooth easy strokes. You may even want to try experimenting with different types of pens to see which one works best for you. From ballpoint pens to fountain pens, there are more than a few that you can try out.

2. Use an index card
Many people have a problem with alignment when writing out sentences. The lines tend to tilt either up or down, which doesn’t look particularly visually pleasing on stationery. In order to prevent this, simply use an index card to guide your sentences. The top of the note card can act as a guide to make sure that your lines stay straight and organized.

3. Take a look at your posture
How do you sit when you’re writing a letter? Instead of crouching over the stationery, try sitting up straight and giving your arm enough room so that you can comfortably write. Clear off the desk space around you so you don’t feel cramped.

4. Slow down
Writing a letter quickly won’t just cause bad handwriting, it may also prompt grammar and spelling mistakes. This could be a deal breaker if you’re writing to a future employer, and it doesn’t look any better to a friend or a loved one. Writing a note isn’t a race, so slow down. Really take the time to complete each letter so that they don’t all blend together and form a jumbled sentence.

5. Practice makes perfect
The more you work on improving your handwriting, the better it’s going to get! It’s as simple as that. Take every opportunity to write more, whether it’s jotting down a grocery list, taking notes in a business meeting or writing in a journal.