Did You Know There Are ‘Right’ Ways To Hold A Pencil? Here’s How You’re Supposed To
By
Editorial Staff in
Facts
On 9th February 2017
We've been using keyboards and devices for so long, the idea of using a pencil or pen to write something might seem quaint.
But we all use them (from time to time, at least), so let’s see if you’re holding them the right way.
If you use them regularly, holding a pencil or pen the wrong way can cause some pretty nasty muscle issues over time. It might seem too late to learn, but it’s not.
Check out the American Journal of Occupational Therapy‘s suggested ways of holding them and see if you’re doing it the right way.
#1 Here are the four correct ways to hold a writing instrument, according to the journal.
#2 Here they are in action, but we'll break them down further below so you can get a better sense of what's going on.
#3 This is number one for a reason. This is the simplest way. Notice how it's a pinch between three fingertips.
It looks a little awkward, but it’s science-approved, so…go for it.
#4 You'll see here that you've got three fingers all working together. While this might seem like the most precise way...
…more fingers doesn’t always equal more control. Getting multiple fingers to work together is tough stuff, but this one is popular because it’s relatively easy to learn, and once people learn one method, they generally don’t let go of it.
#5 This one's a more rock-solid grip. The thumb secures the pencil in place while the point finger controls movement.
This results in a more precise stroke, but can be exhausting if you’re not used to it.
#6 Here we've got a technique that's actually the most relaxed, but you're sacrificing accuracy and control for comfort.
It’s hard to be precise when you’re using two pads of your fingers to control the stroke.
If you do still use a pen or pencil to write and are suffering from strain while doing so, check out the video given below, which might make things a little easier.
