Am I writing wrong....?

[StupidProdigy]

So basically when I write an essay or just any work in general, I seem to be extremely slow, even if I try to write fast I just can't. I think the biggest problem is that I grip the pen too hard...well I think I do anyway but I'm not sure. This sounds like a pretty stupid question but how firmly should I be holding the pen? For example, when I was writing before I stopped and tried pulling my pen out of my hand and it took substantial effort...also would this be a likely cause of my slow writing?

[geminii]

Hi,

Yes, I went through the same thing
I also used to grip my pen pretty tightly, and it took a long time for me to write words. Also, my hand really hurt after just a few minutes.
I suggest you loosen your grip, it works wonders!!

[MightyBeh]

Trip Tight grip can definitely cause slow writing. I find that a loose grip is best - the kind of 'wiggly pen trick' kind of loose maybe plus a bit. A good indication of whether you're holding too tightly is the last joint on your index finger; if there's a lot of pressure on it, it'll bend toward the pen like this, don't do this. I think there's a whole article about poor grip = poor handwriting that goes with that picture, here but I didn't read it, so take it with a grain of salt. If someone tried to pull a pen out of your hand, it shouldn't take much effort. Harder than pulling a straw from a cup, but easier than pulling the lid off of a standard gluestick,I think. It's hard to describe

It shouldn't hurt to write, even after a few pages. I suppose that in general though, if it hurts it's probably not a good thing. 

Also keep in mind that it might just be the pen - I personally can't write with a pen or pencil that's thicker than my finger because I'll get cramps or my hand will hurt, for example.

[Coffee]

Gripping your pen too tightly could definitely be a contributing factor. What sort of pen do you use? Generally the more expensive pens are a lot smoother to write with and thus don't cause as much strain on the hand. Also try a slightly thicker pen or perhaps buying a grip. I've heard 'Fountain' or 'Rollerball' pens are good although I've never used them. Maybe go to Officeworks and test a few pens, see what works. There's definitely some quality pens for $3-$4 there. Otherwise, I know a lot of people say it helps to write small but tall and skinny.

[AngelWings]

Whatever seems comfortable to you. I find the same thing seems to occur to me and if I do it any looser, people can't read my handwriting. My trick is to practise writing long pieces and opting to write until you find a good degree of pressure on the pen/ pencil that's a happy medium. My other trick is to use the time you stop to rub your wrists (I've written something on this before, like half a year ago) and use this time to proof read whatever you've written.

[geminii]

The pen I use is Pilot G-2 07. It's really great and not much pressure is needed to apply ink. So even if you write very lightly, the ink still flows out dark. I'd definitely recommend it!!

[odeaa]

Get a platinum preppy fountain pen, they're like $4 online and flows like a dream with Jo pressure. Otherwise, g-207 or energel .7 from officeworks will get the job done, and I like to chuck a foam grip on mine just for comfort

[StupidProdigy]

Thanks for the help everyone. I tried just letting it be all loose for my english sac and it was great, didn't get tired hands at all! I'll look into some better pens too!!