How do you write? Are you like Patrick E. McLean and prefer to put pen to paper? Are you a writer whose words flow better if your fingers are in connection with a keyboard? The choice of writing methods is a debated topic among writers. Some argue the pen is too slow. Others say writing by computer is too distracting. When all is said and done, our writing methods are a simple matter of personal preference. There isn’t a right way to write. But does how you write affect what you write?
Livia Blackburne of A Brain Scientist’s Take on Writing, shared a study where university students were asked to compose reports using both methods of writing. The results of the study showed not only differences in writing speed, but also in the revision process.
Wall Street Journal reporter Gwendolyn Bounds reported on an Indiana University study that showed how writing by hand engages the brain in ways that are different from writing by computer keyboard. These differences may affect the way you express thoughts and ideas.
I find the whole topic fascinating. While I’ve never had an MRI done while I composed sentences longhand, I can tell you from experience that I write differently with a pen in my hand. Sure, I can peck out letters faster on a keyboard, but, for me at least, faster isn’t always the answer.
I won’t make an argument for one method of writing over another, but I will make a recommendation. The next time you feel stuck or sluggish in your writing, engage your brain by changing the method you use to write. Set aside your pen and boot up the computer for the next few pages. Or if you usually write via keyboard, put pen to paper instead.
What method of writing works best for you? I’d love to hear about it in the comments.
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