How to Analyze Handwriting (see glyphs)

Don’t get too serious about physiognomy. The physiognomy masters claim that they can guess a person’s character by handwriting. Maybe this has some truth to it too – we all imagine what “strong” or “sloppy” handwriting looks like. However, because these claims have not been proven true in scientific tests, scientists consider phylogenetics to be pseudoscientific and ineffective. ^{[1] [2]} At best, this correlation is based only on conjectures and with many exceptions. This is quite an interesting subject, but you should not use this method to review job applications or change friends.

• Never believe anyone who claims to be able to detect criminals or adulterers by handwriting. This is not possible, and such allegations could unreasonably harm the victim.

Sample lettering. If possible, sample lowercase letters (conjoined letters) on a page without lines. This will make it easier to analyze the handwriting than writing in print or on lined paper. Better yet, get lots of sample letters written at least a few hours apart. Handwriting will vary depending on mood and situation, so the features of a single pattern may be just a temporary contrition.

Consider the pressure of the pen stroke. Some people press hard on the paper when writing, others glide very lightly. You can see this by the boldness of the writing and the amount of imprinting on the back of the paper. The following are the interpretations of the physiognomy teachers about this feature: ^{[3] [4]}

• Strong pressure represents emotional strength. Writers can be intensely emotional, hedonistic or energetic.
• The average pressure shows that the owner of the handwriting is a relatively calm and steady person. They may have good cognitive and memory skills.
• Light pressure is a sign of someone who is introverted or prefers quieter environments.

Look at the slant of the stroke. Handwriting, especially lowercase, tends to slant left or right. You can try the following analysis, paying particular attention to solid letters with rounded strokes on them (like the letters b, d, or h):

• Italics to the right are often seen when the writer is eager or writes quickly with enthusiasm. If this trait is often present, the owner of this type of writing may have an assertive and confident personality.
• Italics to the left can indicate a reluctance to write or a mask of emotion. Some argue that left-leaning people are less cooperative than right-leaning people. ^[5]
• Handwriting with vertical strokes can show that the writer has mastery of his emotions. ^[6]
• Note — This may not apply to left-handed writers.

Observe the text. When writing on paper without lines, people often do not write in a very straight line. Place a ruler across the paper and compare it with the corner of the line: ^[7]

• Climbing lines can be an expression of optimism and a good mood.
• Downhill lines can be a sign of discouragement or fatigue.
• Waves up and down can indicate a person is erratic or unstable, or lacks writing skills.

Look at the size of the handwriting. Large letters indicate that the writer is outgoing and sociable. Small handwriting can indicate a recluse, introvert, or miser.

Compare the spacing between letters and words. Did your friend write the letters pressed together? If so, he may be self-deprecating or introverted. If the letters are stretched out, he is probably generous and independent. ^[8] Graphologists also often look at the spacing between words; If the words are written closer together, it shows that the writer likes crowding more. ^[9] Some people have a different interpretation and think that a wider space between words indicates a clearer and more coherent thinking. ^[10]

Observe the connection between the letters. The strokes between the lowercase letters will provide many clues to the analysis of the handwriting, because there is so much variation. Physiologists rarely agree on these, but here are a few interpretations: ^[11]

• Garland: the curves are cup-shaped, opening above. This typeface can show the strength and warmth of the writer.
• Dome: downward curves represent a slower and more serious personality, but can also indicate creative people.
• Thread: the closer the pen stroke to the end of the word, the lighter it is, sometimes just dots on the page. This typeface usually represents haste and sloppiness, although there are variations.