Are you looking for strategies to help students whose writing is illegible? If so, keep reading.

1. Let the learner perform schoolwork in a quiet space (e.g., study carrel, library, resource room, etc.) to lessen distractions.

2. Give the learner shorter tasks while increasing the quality of expectations.

3. Observe the learner while they are performing schoolwork to monitor handwriting quality.

4. Give the learner clearly stated criteria for acceptable work.

5. Get the learner to read/go over schoolwork with the teacher so that the learner can become aware of the quality of their work.

6. Give the learner samples of work to serve as models for acceptable quality (e.g., the learner is to match the quality of the sample before turning in the task).

7. Give the learner additional time to perform schoolwork to achieve quality.

8. Teach the learner procedures for doing quality work (e.g., listen to instructions, make sure instructions are grasped, work at an acceptable pace, check for errors, correct for neatness, copy the work over, etc.).

9. Recognize quality work (e.g., display the learner’s work, congratulate the learner, etc.).

10. Organize a preliminary evaluation of the work. Require the learner to make appropriate corrections before final grading.

11. Create levels of expectations for quality handwriting performance. Require the learner to correct or repeat tasks until the expectations are met.

12. Give the learner quality learning materials to perform tasks (e.g., pencil with eraser, paper, dictionary, handwriting sample, etc.).

13. Give the learner ample chance to master handwriting skills (e.g., instruction in letter positioning, direction, spacing, etc.).

14. Give the learner an appropriate model of handwriting (e.g., other students’ work, teacher samples, commercial samples, etc.) to use at their desks.

15. Exhibit appropriate handwriting at all times.

16. Give a multitude of handwriting chances for the learner to practice handwriting skills (e.g., writing letters to sports and entertainment figures, relatives, or friends; writing for free information on a topic in which the learner is interested, etc.).

17. Get the learner to trace handwriting models. Fade the models as the learner develops the skill.

18. Slowly lessen the space between lines as the learner’s handwriting improves.

19. Utilize primary paper to assist the learner in sizing uppercase and lowercase letters. Utilize standard-lined paper when the learner’s skills improve.

20. Utilize lined paper that is also vertically lined to teach the learner appropriate spacing skills.

21. Consider using one of the apps on one of our best writing apps lists:

The Tech Edvocate’s List of 31 Grammar & Writing Apps, Tools & Resources

Ten Apps to Help Students Develop Writing Skills

10 of the Best Grammar and Writing Apps for Elementary School Students

11 of the Best Grammar and Writing Apps for High School Students

10 of the Best Grammar and Writing Apps for Middle School Students