Hidden in wide loops and tilted letters are hints of our personality and quirks. Graphology, the study of handwriting, has been used to mine these characteristics and attitudes for centuries. Using over 300 handwriting analysis traits, a professional graphologist can infer a writer’s faults and ambitions. Graphology has been used to analyze historical figures, corporate recruits and even criminal masterminds. Although no single handwriting component can simply define a person, graphology analyzes major traits, takes into consideration their modifiers, and plays each off of the other to create a more defined persona composition.

While there are multiple factors to consider in handwriting analysis, knowing the basic handwriting traits can get you started. Try these out on yourself by writing a paragraph in cursive on a blank sheet of paper.

Slant
The way your writing leans reflects expressiveness. An extreme slant to the right is someone who is communicative and generally more extroverted, whereas a far slant to the left shows more reservation in choices and introversion. Upright writing conveys a logical way of thinking  – you maintain your cool under pressure.

Zones
Handwriting is generally separated into three zones for analysis. The upper zone is utilized when you use the letters: b, d, f, h, k, l, and t. The lower zone is dipped into with: j, g, y, p, q, and z. This is where writing comparison comes in handy. Comparing zones show if a certain one is written with more extension, added loops, heavy handedly, or with light pressure.

For example, if all three zones all seem proportional, the writer is likely sensible overall. On the other hand, if letters extend more into the upper or lower zone it shows a higher interest in that area of their life. Writing with tall strokes is essentially reaching for more intellect and spirituality, whereas flourishing in the lower zone reflects an interest in physical activity, sex, and/or finances. Someone starting a business would likely have emphasis in the lower zone of their writing.

Page Margins
The location in which you wrote on your blank sheet of paper also indicates something. While typical page margins are about one inch all around, the side of the page you chose to write on can show if your thinking is rooted in the past or future. Writing with a narrow left margin indicates thinking rooted in origin and family — you consider your past experiences and history to make decisions. A narrower right margin shows a desire to move onto the future — you’re ready for the next stage in life.

Another place to try your hand at graphology is with a letter written to you. First, look for your name in the greeting or body of the letter and compare the spacing around your name to the spacing throughout the rest of the document. If the spacing around your name is wider than the spacing used throughout the rest of the letter, that can mean the writer wants more space from you. Less space around your name can suggest they want to be closer to you. Also, look at other characteristics of how your name is written. Is it larger than the rest of the type, or smaller and irregularly written? The spacing around your name and the way they write it can reflect how the writer feels about you.

Perhaps graphology gives new meaning to finding Mr. Write?

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