Want to train your brain to learn and remember more? Put your mobile device down and pick up a pen.

According to research in the 2013 neurology journal Cortex, feedback involved in any form of handwriting puts multiple areas of the brain in action simultaneously, encouraging brain cells to communicate and connect with one another. Both print and cursive writing builds memory and retention.

From to-do lists to class lecture notes, multiple studies found that the simple act of writing things down is the most effective method for improving memory. For example, a study published in 2014 in Scientific American randomly assigned college students to take class notes either with a pen and paper or laptop. The students were then tested on what they learned. Though the students on laptops took more and more detailed notes, the students with the handwritten notes actually retained much more of the information and applied what they learned more effectively.

The Science Behind Handwriting
Handwriting is more effective, thanks to our brains’ “command center” called the Reticular Activating System (RAS). The RAS is a productive network of cells that connects our cortex to our brain stem. Because this system is responsible for attention, alertness and motivation, it does best when engaged through multiple senses and physical movement. In fact, another study at the University of Austin, TX found that writing just a few sentences in a daily journal strengthens T-lymphocytes, an important category of immune cells.

Studies have also taken this a step further to demonstrate that cursive writing improves memory and makes us smarter. For school children, learning cursive allows the brain to develop functional specialization that integrates sensation, movement control and thinking.

Your Handwriting Homework

To sharpen your mind, make handwriting a daily routine by doing the following:

1. Journal. Faithfully keep a daily journal; write at least one sentence in it per day.
2. Jot. Write down what you need to remember as soon as it comes to your mind. Complete sentences aren't necessary; jot down key words, times, etc. to help you remember.
3. Note. Rather than pull out your phone and type, carry a stack of sticky notes around and hand them to coworkers or family and friends.
4. Write. You’ll enjoy handwriting more if you enjoy what you’re writing with. Find a favorite pen or paper to make your handwriting experience more rewarding.

​The Mail Connection
What better way to put your handwriting training into practice than through mail correspondence! Studies revealed in reports like the 2016 Mail Moments show that people still love receiving personal mail. Send more handwritten mail to customers and loved ones—it’s good for everyone!