How to Identify Handwriting Problems

🔍 Common signs of handwriting problems

Illegibility
- Letters are hard to read or inconsistent in shape and size.
- Words run together or are spaced erratically.
- Writing is hard to decipher even for the writer.
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Inconsistent letter formation
- Upper and lower case are mixed.
- Letters are formed differently each time.
- Difficulty with specific letters like “a,” “g,” or “r.”
- Reversals of letters (common in young children) like writing “b” for “d.”
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Poor spacing and alignment
- Uneven spacing between letters and words.
- Writing drifts off the line or is slanted awkwardly.
- Letters are too close together or too far apart.
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Grip and posture issues
- Unusual pencil grip (e.g., using the whole hand or an overly tight grip).
- Poor posture or hand fatigue after short writing sessions.
- Frequent hand cramps or complaints of pain.
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Slow or labored writing
- Takes a long time to write even short passages.
- Writing speed doesn’t match age or grade level expectations.
- Frequent erasing or rewriting.
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Avoidance or frustration
- Reluctance to write or complaints about writing tasks.
- Negative self-talk about handwriting (“I hate writing,” “I’m bad at this”).

Observe and take notes: Track when and how the problems occur.
Compare to age-appropriate samples (available online).
Try handwriting screening tools: Some are available through occupational therapists or educators.
Consult professionals: Occupational therapists or educational psychologists can assess fine motor or writing-specific difficulties like dysgraphia.