Hands that write

Human hands are undoubtedly the most versatile and adaptable organs. Almost any task we do requires our hands, so how can writing be any different? We use our hands to write, whether one or the other, or both, as in digital writing. The traditional way, however, is no longer as common as it once was.

In the modern era, writing has become synonymous with typing, not that rustic pen-and-paper way anymore. People text on their phones, email on their computers, and even take notes digitally. This process is convenient, time-efficient, and compatible with everyone.

There is no problem in using keystrokes per se, but completely ignoring the beautiful and charming way of writing by hand is unfortunate. Handwriting is a whole different experience that can never be achieved digitally. It is tactile and involves various motor neurons. Research has shown that students who take physical notes retain information 50% longer than those who don’t.

Toddlers begin their learning journey using a pencil and paper. This method stimulates intricate parts of the brain and helps them learn effectively. Writing by hand is slow, but that very slowness builds retention and improves cognition. The digital way, by contrast, often feels mechanical and lacks the physical feel.

Teaching writing is not as simple as teaching a toddler to hold the grip tightly. But using pen and paper makes the process less tedious and more enduring. The way every person writes is unique, it carries their personal imprint. This explains why handwritten letters exude more warmth and are more likely to receive a favorable response.

In this new era, where everything is being digitalized in the name of modernization, let’s leave writing out of it because who doesn’t love the joy of turning over those yellow, faded pages and reliving the memory, instead of just reading it?

Saliq Majeed, GKSC Scholar