Why Handwriting Is Better than Typing
In the age of digitalization, the recommendation to write more by hand seems contradictory. Yet analog writing has numerous advantages and should not be replaced by computers.
In my opinion, we should write much more by hand, especially when brainstorming and thinking.
Availability
If I want to write something down, all I need is a pen and paper. If you have a notepad in your backpack at all times, like I do, you don't need to worry about power or an internet connection.
Whether I want to write something down on the go, don't want to look at a display at night, or need an alternative when my laptop is empty: my notepad is always available.
If you collect your notes afterwards in an inbox nothing gets lost.
I write down my notes by hand while reading, for example. It makes me more independent and pen and paper are less distracting.
Speed
It's often faster to write something down by hand than to boot up your computer or take out your laptop. The only exception here is perhaps the smartphone, on which I find typing more difficult, however. Especially in situations where you can't dictate a thought, writing it down is usually the faster alternative.
Handwriting can score points especially when it comes to sketching diagrams, mind maps and the like. There are also computer programs for that, but the creation usually takes longer.
Whiteboards and blackboards also have the advantage that you have a better overview than on a (comparatively) small screen and that people can write down ideas together even without technology.
The handwritten sketch cannot, of course, be used in a business presentation, but in brainstorming the higher speed is an advantage.
Meaningfulness
Anyone who has ever received a handwritten letter or postcard knows that it just feels more meaningful than a text message or email.
The next time you want to please someone, send him or her a letter! Personally, I also write my diary in an analog calendar. On a weekly basis, I digitize the most important information so I can search and archive it. You can learn more about this process in my article “Looking back at your life!”
Later Digitization Is Possible
As with all things, the same applies to handwriting: Of course, you can't use it in all areas. Some things need to be recorded digitally.
However, since handwriting offers advantages when thinking, I brainstorm with pen and paper. The results are later digitized if necessary.
Thanks to numerous scanner apps for smartphones and a relatively high typing speed, this is no problem.
In summary, handwriting has the edge over digital alternatives in some areas. You should not generally dismiss pen and paper as “old-fashioned”, but use their advantages!