The simple act of putting pen to paper may seem outdated to many – especially with our increasing use of technology, however, many studies have shown that there are numerous benefits to physically writing things down. From enhancing memory to boosting focus and concentration, the evidence is clear – writing by hand has a profound impact on our brains and on our daily lives.
In this post, we will share some of the science behind putting pen to paper. Below are 7 evidence-based benefits worth noting.
1. Memory and learning
Research has consistently shown that writing by hand improves memory and enhances learning. When we write things down, we engage multiple regions of the brain involved in processing and storing information. This strengthens neural connections and makes it easier for us to remember and retain what we have written.
2. Enhanced cognitive function
Writing by hand stimulates areas of the brain associated with cognition and executive function. Studies have found that children who learn to write by hand demonstrate better reading comprehension, spelling, and language skills compared to those who exclusively type. For adults, writing by hand is equally beneficial.
3. Increased focus and concentration
The act of writing by hand requires focused attention and concentration which helps to sharpen our mental faculties. We can probably all agree that typing on a keyboard or device can lead to mindless, automatic behaviour, whereas writing by hand encourages greater engagement with the task at hand. This heightened focus can drastically improve productivity and cognitive performance.
4. Stress reduction and relaxation
Writing by hand has been shown to have therapeutic effects on stress and anxiety. The physical act of writing can induce a calming effect on the nervous system, similar to meditation or deep breathing exercises. Journaling, in particular, has been found to reduce symptoms of depression and promote emotional wellbeing.
5. Enhanced creativity and problem-solving
Putting pen to paper can stimulate the creative centres of the brain leading to new ideas and insights. Research has shown that generating ideas and brainstorming activities are more effective when done by hand, as writing allows us to explore connections and associations in a nonlinear way. Whether doodling, sketching, or jotting down ideas, writing by hand could be the key to unlocking creative potential.
6. Better goal-setting and achievement
Studies have found that writing our goals down increases our likelihood of achieving them. When we commit them to paper, not only do they become more real, but the path to success often becomes clearer. Regularly reviewing and revising our written goals can help us to maintain the focus and motivation needed to actually achieve them.
7. Tangible connection to information
Writing by hand creates a tangible connection to the information we are recording. Unlike digital notes which can easily be forgotten or deleted, handwritten notes are more helpful when it comes to internalising and remembering information. The result is deeper and more meaningful comprehension and better retention of information.Using digital devices is now a way of life for most of us, but the evidence is clear, putting pen to paper is still highly beneficial. The thought of writing by hand when you don’t need to may seem tedious, but clearly, there is still value in doing it. So, the next time you are tempted to reach for your device, consider writing things down the old-fashioned way – because the science is clear – it’s good for you!
Useful Resources
Research Papers
Mueller, P. A., & Oppenheimer, D. M. (2014). The Pen Is Mightier Than the Keyboard: Advantages of Longhand Over Laptop Note Taking. Psychological Science, 25(6), 1159-1168. https://doi.org/10.1177/0956797614524581
>> Read here
Umejima K, Ibaraki T, Yamazaki T and Sakai KL (2021) Paper Notebooks vs. Mobile Devices: Brain Activation Differences During Memory Retrieval. Front. Behav. Neurosci. 15:634158. doi: 10.3389/fnbeh.2021.634158
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Van der Weel FR and Van der Meer ALH (2024) Handwriting but not typewriting leads to widespread brain connectivity: a high-density EEG study with implications for the classroom. Front. Psychol. 14:1219945. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1219945
>> Read here
