How to write in cursive: start with i, t, u, w, e and l
Cursive letter tracing I–L, lowercase · 2 pages
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To write in cursive, learn the lowercase letters in groups that share a starting stroke, then practice the joins between them. Start with the undercurve letters i, t, u and w: each one scoops up from the baseline, slants down, and swings away to the right. Then add the loop letters e and l, which scoop up and loop back. Those six letters already make real words such as tie, wet, little and we, which is why this beginner sheet uses them.
Each letter gets a solid model with arrows, dotted copies to trace, and a row of start dots to write on. The lines are large, which helps beginners of any age feel the slant. Spend a few days here, then move on to the next groups: b, h, k, f; then n, m, v, x, y, z; then a, c, d, g, o, q. The cursive alphabet chart shows them all.
Once letters feel comfortable, try joining them in cursive words.
Tips for using it
- Sit with feet flat, paper slanted along the writing arm (to the left for right-handers, to the right for left-handers), and pull strokes toward the body.
- Write slowly at first. Speed comes from repeating the same shape, not from rushing.
- Dot i and cross t only after the whole word is written, so the pencil keeps moving.
Variations
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What is the easiest way to learn cursive?
Learn letters in stroke families instead of A to Z, practice 10 to 15 minutes a day, and start joining letters into short words within the first week. Tracing a model and then writing from a start dot, as on this sheet, is the gentlest progression.
Can adults learn cursive with these worksheets?
Yes. Switch Line size to Small for adult-size writing. Adults usually move faster through the letters but benefit from the same family order and slow, even strokes.
What order should cursive letters be taught in?
A common order is undercurve letters (i, t, u, w, r, s, p, j), loop letters (e, l, h, k, b, f), overcurve letters (n, m, v, x, y, z) and oval letters (a, c, d, g, o, q), with capitals last. Programs vary, but grouping by starting stroke is widespread.