If you want to increase your writing speed, there are steps you can take to improve efficiency and complete tasks faster. First, you need to do all the necessary research and organize your ideas into a framework. From there, you can set realistic goals and keep practicing until you see results. If you're having trouble writing with pen and paper, make sure you're in a comfortable position and have all the proper stationery ready. With enough practice and repetition, your writing speed will increase.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Speeding Up Writing Task Completion
Step 1. Determine when you are most productive in the day
Some people write faster and more efficiently in the morning, while others are more productive at night. Try writing at both times and determine which one works best for you. Then, try to finish writing as much as possible in that time.
Even though you are used to staying up late, maybe in the morning you can still be productive. Try writing at different times to get a feel for what works best for you
Tip:
You can write during productive times, and read results and edit during non-productive times.
Step 2. Create an outline
Read the assignment instructions so you know what to write. Do your research and write the main points of an essay, paper, or story, in outline form. Decide what you want to include, then write 2–3 sentences, or subpoints, within that main point. This helps you keep your writing focused and on topic, which will avoid having to delete or edit unnecessarily.
- Here are examples of the article's main points: "Described Circuits" and "Powering Up Electronic Devices". Under the main item "Describe the Circuit," include items such as "Explaining a simple circuit" and "Completing a circuit."
- Doing research in the middle of the writing process is a waste of valuable time.
- Include sources in the outline to save time, especially if you have to list citations later. If you are using an electronic resource, mark it with a bookmark on your computer. Include notes in the outline of how you used the resource and the information you wish to retrieve.
Step 3. Write the first draft quickly and then open it again for editing
Write concisely and accurately, but don't obsess over the spelling or grammar of this first draft. Instead, just write it quickly and then read it again for editing. This allows you to clear up the bulk of the work and concentrate on grammar and spelling at the revision stage.
- Paying attention to small details can be time-consuming and slow down the writing process.
- If you get stuck at one point, skip it first and try again later with a fresh mind.
Step 4. Minimize distractions around you
Distractions like surfing the internet, watching TV, or opening a chat program can get in the way of efficiency and slow down the writing process. Find a quiet place where you can write without distractions.
- A neat and clean workbench can also minimize distractions and increase efficiency.
- If possible, stay away from phones, tablets, or other devices that might tempt you to check social media or surf the web. You can use productivity apps or extensions (such as StayFocused) that will temporarily turn off access to time-wasting sites.
Step 5. Set realistic goals and deadlines
If you're new to writing and aren't familiar with deadlines, it's possible that your process will be slower than for someone with more experience. Set goals that are reasonable and within your capabilities. If you set one goal and then get stressed or find it impossible to achieve it, set a lighter goal.
- Set goals that are getting higher and higher. Don't set a high in the first place.
- If you've never written much, you may not be able to write fast without practice.
- For example, set a goal to write a certain number of pages or words in one day. If you're still learning to write faster, daily goals will feel more achievable than shorter-term goals (eg hourly goals).
Step 6. Use a timer to help achieve goals
In order to increase your writing speed, you need a way to measure the improvement. Set the time according to the goal earlier and try to fulfill it within the allotted time. If you don't have a stopwatch or timer device, there are apps built specifically for that purpose.
Don't stress with time limits. This tool is only to remind how much time was spent doing the task
Tip:
Take a 3-5 minute break every 30 minutes to 1 hour so you don't get tired.
Method 2 of 2: Increase Handwriting Speed
Step 1. Get your body in the correct posture
Keep your back straight and make sure your feet are flat on the floor. The lower back and hips should be fully supported by the chair you are sitting on. Knees and elbows should be bent and you should be comfortable when sitting. Maintain this posture to reduce fatigue and increase stamina while writing.
- Whenever you notice that you are slouching, change your posture to the correct sitting position.
- If the chair is too low or the table is too high, you may need to buy a new one.
Notes:
Maintaining good posture is also beneficial for the back and hips.
Step 2. Hold the pen or pencil in a comfortable way
The way you hold a pencil has less of an impact on writing speed as much on comfort. Make sure your hands are in a comfortable position and are not cramping or sore. If it hurts, consider changing the way you hold your pencil or pen so you can write faster.
- The usual way of holding the pen is to pinch it between the index and thumb while the pen is resting on the middle finger.
- Adjusting the position of the paper will also have an effect on comfort.
Step 3. Use a pen or pencil that doesn't need to be pressed
If you have to press the paper while writing, your hands will get sore quickly. Look for a pen that is not so thin that it is difficult to hold, but not so thick that writing becomes uncomfortable.
- A pen may be easier to use for writing than a ballpoint pen.
- Mechanical pencils do not require as much force to write as ordinary pencils.
- You can buy pencil or pen holders to make them thicker and easier to hold.
Step 4. Use symbols if your writing is not to be submitted as an assignment
Methods like Pitman Shorthand and Gregg Shorthand use symbols to represent words, letters, and punctuation. Most of these symbols are faster and easier to write than letters and words, and can certainly increase writing speed. Learn how to use the symbol method in a library or the internet.
- Remember that the symbol method is unknown to everyone and cannot be used for assignments or on exams.
- It can take weeks or even months to master the symbol method.
Step 5. Keep practicing
Daily practice will improve the speed and beauty of handwriting. The more you practice, the faster and neater your handwriting will be. You can write at home, or take quick notes in class. Use appropriate exercises and avoid anything that can slow you down.
If there is no progress after trying all the methods, talk to the teacher and ask if they have any techniques that can help
Notes:
If your hands are cramping or you're tired, take a break and continue later.
