Type any sentence. See exactly how to write it.
Free handwriting practice for kids: stroke-by-stroke letter formation in print, semi-joined and joined (cursive) handwriting, as taught in UK schools.
- Any sentenceNot just a fixed word list: spelling words, names, a line from a story.
- Real school handwritingLetter shapes from the UK school handwriting model, with the correct start point and direction for every stroke.
- Free printable sheetsTurn your own words into tracing worksheets in seconds.
How the handwriting practice works
- 1
Type
Write any word or sentence, or pick one from a practice set.
- 2
Watch
Every stroke is drawn in order, with a red start dot and an arrow showing the direction.
- 3
Practise
Trace it on paper with a printable sheet, or step through it one stroke at a time.
Handwriting practice by age, from Reception to Year 6
Three stages that follow how handwriting is taught in UK primary schools.
Little Writers Ages 4–6
Letter families, big tracing and picture words, in print.
Letter families · Big tracing · My name
Start →Word Builders Ages 7–8
Tricky words, first joins and short sentences, moving to semi-joined.
Tricky words · First joins · Short sentences
Start →Fluent Joiners Ages 9–11
Joined sentences, every kind of join, speed and fluency.
Join types · Whole sentences · Fluency
Start →Handwriting games
Short games that make stroke order stick. Play with our words or your own.
Free handwriting worksheets from your own words
Model letters with numbered start dots, grey letters to trace, dotted letters and a blank line, on A4, ready to print.
Create a worksheet →Questions from parents and teachers
What is the difference between print, semi-joined and joined handwriting?
Print (precursive) letters stand on their own but already have the small exit flicks that later become joins. Semi-joined writing joins most letters but leaves a gap after b, f, g, j, p, q, s and y. Joined (cursive) writing links the letters of a word in one flowing movement.
Which handwriting style do you use?
Letter shapes come from Playwrite GB, a free font designed by TypeTogether from the handwriting model taught in schools in England. Stroke order and direction follow the UK National Curriculum conventions.
Can I use my own words?
Yes. Type any sentence: spelling lists, a child's name, a line from a book. Every letter, digit and common punctuation mark is supported.
Is it free? Do we need an account?
It is free and there is nothing to sign up for. Progress is kept only on your own device.
How do I teach my child correct letter formation?
Teach the four letter families one at a time (long ladder, curly caterpillar, one-armed robot and zig-zag letters), because each family starts with the same movement. Show the starting point and direction first, watch the letter written, then trace it before writing it alone. Short daily practice works better than long sessions.
When do children start joined handwriting?
In England most children write print letters with exit flicks in Reception and Year 1, start joining in Year 2, and are expected to use joined handwriting fluently in Key Stage 2 (Years 3 to 6). Semi-joined writing is a common step in between.
Can I make handwriting worksheets with my child's name?
Yes. The free worksheet maker turns any name, spelling list or sentence into a printable A4 tracing sheet in print, semi-joined or cursive handwriting, with numbered start dots and dotted letters to trace.