How Handwriting Strengthens Brain, Learning and Memory

By Rajeshwaari Kalla | September 16, 2025 | Image: Canva

Handwriting in Modern Times

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Writing by hand is slowly becoming an art that only a few adults keep these days in this world of technology

Brain Areas in Handwriting

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While writing by hand, a number of brain areas are activated, such as motor control areas and language centres

Encoding Effect and Memory

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The act of forming letters by hand,  called the encoding effect, helps strengthen memory retention

Learning New Characters

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Research has found that handwriting  aids in learning new characters more effectively than typing

Reflection and Understanding

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Handwriting, being a more deliberate process, supports better understanding and enhances reflection in thoughts

Perceptual Networks Formation

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As writing merges visual, tactile, and motor feedback, it helps form perceptual networks in the brain

Orthographic Memory Benefits

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Orthographic memory (recognising and recalling visual forms of words) improves when writing by hand

Fine Motor Development

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Handwriting enhances fine motor skills and improves hand-eye coordination

Creativity and Idea Stimulation

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While writing, ideas and creative thinking are stimulated more  compared to typing

Teaching Writing in Childhood

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Teaching young children to write early aids in building neural circuits and language systems

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