Exploring the Benefits of Cursive Writing for Creative Thinking

Thank you for the A2A. I write using a keyboard, but many people believe that cursive writing can help stimulate creativity. However, my personal experience has shown that it is not a universally effective method. My hand is very sensitive, and even a short amount of writing can lead to cramps, making me choose typing over handwriting.

Challenges of Handwriting

Typing holds a significant advantage for me because my fingers prefer the tactile sensation of a keyboard. They do not have the same desire for a pen, although I do jot down notes when near a pen. Typing also allows me to type at a comfortable speed, which is around 60 words per minute. While I do not type at full speed when writing, this speed still facilitates quick and effective creative thought processes.

Teaching Cursive Writing

I have spent 20 years as a newspaper reporter using a typewriter, establishing a strong connection between my fingers and my creative brain. Despite my love for cursive, there are situations where typing is more practical and efficient.

Currently, I teach cursive writing at the local library, where I have observed how learning cursive can positively impact learners' overall curiosity and engagement. Students who learn cursive often find that their handwriting, a form of expression, spills over into other areas of their lives. Understanding the history and art of cursive writing can inspire creativity and enhance artistic skills.

Personal Experience of Declining Cursive Use

Cursive writing has become increasingly rare in my personal life. The last time I wrote in cursive was around June 1979 during my senior year in high school. My cursive handwriting is nearly unreadable unless I write extremely slowly. Conversely, I can print legibly much faster.

The Power of Word Processors

Word processors offer significant advantages in the writing process. They reduce the focus on the mechanics of writing, allowing me to concentrate on creative thought. When I am stuck on how to begin an essay, I often start with a single sentence that I don't know what to write, which sparks a chain of thoughts. With the flexibility of moving sentences and paragraphs, I can quickly refine my ideas and restructure my work.

The ability to use the delete key and move entire sections with a few clicks allows me to experiment with my ideas more freely. Creative ideas can emerge from the process of rearranging and refining text, making word processors invaluable tools for sparking and nurturing creativity.

While some writers swear by cursive writing for creative inspiration, it is important to remember that everyone has a unique method for generating and expressing their ideas. Experimentation can lead to unexpected discoveries, and for those who appreciate cursive writing, it can certainly be a valuable tool. However, for others, typing on a full keyboard or using a word processor may be more efficient and effective.