Print vs Cursive vs D'Nealian

Last updated: June 15, 2026

Handwriting programs use different letterforms, joins, slants and formation cues. There is no universal winner or grade sequence. The most useful home worksheet is usually the one that matches the learner's current classroom model instead of mixing systems.

Generator note: this site's Print, Connected cursive and Slanted print options are generic web fonts. They do not reproduce official Zaner-Bloser, D'Nealian, or Learning Without Tears letterforms or stroke sequences.

Print (Manuscript) Handwriting

Print, also called manuscript, places letters separately rather than joining them into a continuous word. Programs differ in details such as the shape of lowercase a, whether strokes have entry or exit tails, and the order used to form each letter.

Choose the generic Print option for customizable copy lines only when its visible forms are compatible with the assigned model. If exact formation matters, keep the school's alphabet chart beside the worksheet.

Cursive Handwriting

Connected cursive joins some or all letters within a word. Capital forms, lowercase forms and joins vary across named programs, so a readable generic font is not automatically the same as the model used in class.

Use this generator's Connected cursive option for editable copy practice after comparing the preview with the learner's curriculum. It does not show stroke order and should not replace a formation chart.

D'Nealian Handwriting

D'Nealian Handwriting is a named commercial program with its own manuscript and cursive models. Its slanted manuscript forms and entry or exit strokes are specific instructional choices, not a generic label for every slanted font.

The generator retains the older internal preset value dnealian for link compatibility, but the visible option is correctly labelled Slanted print (generic). Do not use it as a substitute for an official D'Nealian worksheet or formation chart.

There is no universal grade sequence

Schools, districts and curricula can introduce styles in different orders. Follow the current classroom sequence and terminology. If a learner needs individualized support, ask their teacher or occupational therapist rather than using a grade chart or a worksheet to determine readiness.

How to choose a worksheet style

Match the assigned model. Use the same letterforms, joins and verbal cues used in class.
Match the task. A print spelling list, connected-name worksheet and adult copy line are different uses.
Check the preview. Generic web fonts can differ substantially from a named curriculum.
Avoid medical conclusions. A font choice or worksheet cannot diagnose dyslexia, explain reversals, or prescribe support for an individual learner.

Using the generator

Choose Print, Connected cursive or Slanted print, then set the guides and relative size. Treat the output as customizable copy space. When a school uses a named curriculum, its formation chart remains the authority.