Handwriting versus Typing: The Best Learning Method

What’s your favorite way to take notes? Changes in technology have created a shift in students’ preferences, transitioning to more notes being recorded on laptops or tablets as opposed to being handwritten in notebooks. While keyboards offer convenience and speed, they might also be hindering your ability to memorize information.
A study from researchers Pam A. Mueller and Daniel M. Oppenheimer of Princeton University and UCLA, respectively, demonstrated that students remember more information when they handwrite notes. Although laptop users were able to record more information with their devices, they could not recall the information as well because they were not fully processing the words. When students record notes on pens and papers, they must be more selective about the information they record, forcing them to summarize and condense the information as they receive it. This allowed them to pay more attention to the lesson. When using laptops, students had an instinct to copy everything verbatim, even when they were advised against it.
The study also addressed the thought that students using laptops might be able to study better, even if they couldn’t remember the information as strongly right away. However, they were still beat by their handwriting peers. This suggested that the act of writing out each letter was a superior method for encoding information in the brain. Handwritten notes can be better organized as well, allowing students to create charts or add drawings to aid their memory. There are many professors who have banned the use of laptops and tablets in the classroom, stating that their main reason was due to distractions. Professors say that it is difficult to monitor if students are actually using their devices to take notes and read lecture slides, or if they are instead checking social media and watching videos. This can create a chain reaction in students who see that they can get away with not paying attention in class, or become a distracting visual to students who do want to participate in the lesson.
Despite technology’s benefits in other areas, this is an instance where the classics produce better performances. Choosing to handwrite your notes could make the difference in your grades, and might even allow you to cut down on studying time. The next time you’re shopping for school supplies, opt for a nice pen and notebook! You’re in the right place to start!

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