As children get older:

• • Many standardised assessments are based on written exercises, particularly in time-limited written examinations. That is why it is important to have fast and clearly legible handwriting. This factors in as a major form of assessment for several formal qualifications.
  • Illegible handwriting can cause poor self-esteem in students in their formative years. Poor self-esteem can trigger loss of confidence, which is directly reflected in their performance.
  • Children who experience difficulty mastering handwriting may avoid writing and produce poor written work. Children with poor handwriting will find it hard to proofread their own work. They will then fail to spot their mistakes and their confidence may dip even lower.
  • Examiners need to decipher what is written. Otherwise, pupils will achieve lower marks, even where the content may be good. Many states standardised assessments and handwritten essays emphasise the importance of handwriting. Without fast and legible handwriting, students may miss out on learning opportunities and under-achieve academically.
  • Handwriting is critical to creative, well-crafted text affecting both fluency and the quality of the composition. Handwriting contributes to better writers. Children who have mastered it are better, more creative writers.
  • Taking notes by hand is vital for all students of all ages because it improves attention, comprehension, and results. Students’ notes must be self-legible, otherwise, they are worthless.