I Forgot how to Write
I have been typing everything from as far back as 2001. I use pens only when I have no other choice but to do so. Namely, to sign checks and important documents.
I attempted to write something lengthy recently and I struggled terribly with the activity. Going through many writing styles, stopping and starting while trying to get my rhythm and groove back.
I must admit it came after a while. However, it was a very uncomfortable experience. I wonder, is this good or bad? Am I becoming half man half computer? Am I loosing my roots?
How about you, can you still write comfortably?
David
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OK....when I first read the title, I thought you were referring to writer's block, but you're actually talking about the use of penmanship!
I still prefer to write, as it using a pen and notepad, so it's something that I do regularly. I just seem to retain information more when I write it out as opposed to typing, so all of my "Things To Do" lists are handwritten. When I came onto this platform, I was hand-writing out all of my posts on my site, the thoughts just seem to flow better. It took me a few months before I felt comfortable enough to just type up my posts. I also like the look of my handwriting, so there may be some vanity.
Practice makes better, David.
Thanks for reading Veronica.
I will practice indeed.
Maybe you can send us a sample of that handwriting for us to judge for ourselves:)
David
Let's just say if my mother saw my current handwriting she wouldn't know what to think.
I never had great penmanship however it has deteriorated to the painful experience you describe.
OY!
~Bob
Hi Bob.
Oh no! Am sure it's not that bad. Anyway, people like us are otherwise gifted :).
David
I still write about as well as I ever did, but that's not saying much. I try to make a conscious effort now to be be neat, but if I am writing quickly, it is a bit sloppy. I think it's rather unfortunate. I respect when someone has very good penmanship.
Yes, fair enough. I also admire people with great penmanship. That escapes me though. I write like a doctor (no offense).
David
I'm amazed at how sloppy my cursive writing is these days. I print almost everything when I do write. I'm a compulsive note taker, and have even found myself printing my notes on the videos I'm watching for the training! Surprised I can keep up with the speaker, because I always thought cursive writing was faster. When I was in college, I even used a few of the shorthand abbreviations that I remembered. Now I use medical shorthand for a few of the smaller words, such as with, without, and after. I, too, admire nice handwriting, but, alas, I think it's pretty much a dying art. Computers have replaced handwriting in many cases. I have read that some schools are not even teaching cursive writing any more. Guess those kids will be printing their signatures!
My writing has definitely deteriorated. I'd hate to write an essay all at once, like I had to in college literature classes!
Best thing I ever did was take a typing class in high school - my parents insisted I do so. Now all I do is type on my laptop all day long - and love it!
Great! Do you type on your laptop according to the formal method?
I remember learning to type on my mom's typewriter using that approach. It really makes everything easier as long as one puts in the practice.
David
Yup, I'm guessing what I use is considered the formal method. I've had so much practice, I type pretty fast now. It's a good thing - I really need the extra time!
Great. I have mastered the two-thumb approach on my mobile, that's what I use when I am not at the PC. I have learned to type as fast as I speak so I guess that's why I default to typing.
David
I spent some time doing medical transcription, and I'm a good typist. I'm also a stubborn old woman who refuses to type on a laptop, ipad, or phone...I still use a full size keyboard even when using a laptop. I'm too fast and get my fingers between the keys on those little things. (I still have a flip phone and refuse to text, as well.) Think there's a chance for this old dinosaur to make good? I do. But I won't be doing it with 2 thumbs!!
I've done most of my writing on the computer for so long people think it's a real treat when they get anything I've hand written. I had to write notes in several sympathy cards recently and did OK, but it took me awhile to overcome "handwriting block"! I remember when I was in college, I hadn't written my term paper yet the day before it was due. Had all my research done and neatly organized on index cards, as I'd been taught. Then sat down at my typewriter and started moving my fingers. The paper "wrote itself"! Guess I'd been thinking about what I was going to say unconsciously, and it just came to life as I started typing. Typed all night and finished that term paper 1/2 hour before the class when it was due. Didn't even have time to proofread it. Never procrastinated like that again! But I did get an A on the paper in spite of myself!
Wow! Amazing.
Yes, those all-nighters can be rewarding but hard on the mind and body.
David
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I find it difficult to read my own handwriting these days, so I'm thankful I have a keyboard. You get out of practice quickly.
That's true Nick.
Thanks for sharing.
All the best and much success to you.
David
Same to you David and thanks for the follow! I've been using a keyboard and not too much else since 1993 :-(
Yes, great. I can't go back to the pen completely now. However, I am "learning" again and am quite fond of writing somewhat.
David