<p>I have abysmal handwriting; when I took a Princeton Review verbal/writing prep course, I got combined scores of 2 on my first two practice essays (with the stated reason being that the grader couldn't read the essay), and only when I slowed down and wrote less well but more legibly did I get a 10 combined. I'm taking the January SAT, and I'm worried. If I slow down and am legible, it hurts my writing process, and the quality of the content declines. Then again, I don't want my graders to fail me because they can't read my essay. Any advice on this?</p>
<p>Well, if those prediction scores are accurate, then obviously, even when you slow down, your writing is still good. Though you say you think your fast writing is better (and if so, then it might make 12s), are you willing to risk your score? [if they end up not being able to read your handwriting]</p>
<p>If it's a choice between a 2 or a 10, I'd go with the 10 man (even if that means possibly sacrificing a chance @ a 12) and hey, maybe you can do perfectly even with slow writing :]</p>
<p>It's more important that your handwriting is legible than anything else. If the person marketing your essay can not read your handwriting, you'll be awarded 0 (maybe 1 if you're lucky).</p>
<p>if the reader cannot read the handwriting they will pass the essay on to someone who finally can.</p>
<p>bad handwriting hurts. mine was still clearly legible, but I'm convinced it's what caused my low essay scores.</p>
<p>practice; u still have a month</p>
<p>Try cursive if it's easier to read. Who knows.</p>
<p>Hmm...go for getting the essay to be legible. And yes, I agree that practice is very helpful. I don't really have the problem, though, since I've always had neat handwriting. Not that it'll help, since I'm pretty bad with the essay section anyway.</p>