What is it called when you can't write letters?

When handwriting becomes a hurdle

For many, writing letters is second nature, a smooth coordination of hand, brain, and language. But for others, the simple act of forming letters on a page becomes a daily struggle. If this sounds familiar, you might be wondering: what is it actually called when someone can’t write letters properly?

The answer is dysgraphia, a neurological condition that affects writing ability, particularly the physical act of writing and letter formation. It’s more than messy handwriting. Dysgraphia can deeply impact a person’s ability to communicate effectively in written form, often going undiagnosed well into adolescence or adulthood.

Let’s break down what dysgraphia really means, what causes it, and what can help.

Understanding dysgraphia

Dysgraphia is a specific learning difficulty that makes writing, especially handwriting, unusually difficult. It affects a person’s fine motor skills, making it hard to form letters consistently, space words evenly, or write legibly at a normal pace.

According to the International Dyslexia Association, dysgraphia can impact:

• Letter formation and spacing

• Writing fluency and speed

• Spelling and sequencing of letters

• Grammar and composition skills

  
  

It is not linked to intelligence. In fact, many people with dysgraphia have average or above-average verbal skills, they may be able to speak fluently but struggle to get their thoughts down on paper.

What causes dysgraphia?

Dysgraphia may result from differences in how the brain processes written language and controls fine motor coordination.

There are two key types:

• Developmental dysgraphia: often appears in childhood and may coexist with ADHD, dyslexia, or dyspraxia. It’s not caused by injury or trauma.

• Acquired dysgraphia: results from brain injury, stroke, or neurological illness, and can occur at any age.

  
  

Some signs include:

• Illegible handwriting despite effort

• Inconsistent letter sizes and shapes

• Awkward pencil grip

• Fatigue when writing

• Difficulty copying text

  
  

If left unsupported, it can cause real frustration, anxiety around writing tasks, and low self-esteem in both children and adults.

How is dysgraphia diagnosed?

There is no single test, but diagnosis typically involves assessments by educational psychologists, occupational therapists, or specialists in neurodevelopmental disorders.

Professionals may evaluate:

• Writing samples

• Fine motor skills

• Letter sequencing and spacing

• Overall learning profile

  
  

If you suspect dysgraphia in yourself or your child, speak to your GP or school SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) for a referral.

The British Dyslexia Association also provides support and screening services.

Support strategies that work

While there’s no ‘cure’ for dysgraphia, many accommodations can significantly ease the burden:

• Typing and voice-to-text tools: these bypass handwriting and let individuals focus on content

• Use of lined or graph paper: helps with spatial awareness and letter sizing

• Pencil grips and ergonomic pens: improve comfort and control

• Writing exercises: occupational therapists may recommend motor-skills activities to strengthen coordination

• Extra time in exams or coursework: a common and reasonable adjustment

  
  

Schools and workplaces are increasingly aware of these needs, and reasonable accommodations can be legally requested under the Equality Act 2010 in the UK.

Letter writing with dysgraphia

If you or someone you care about finds it hard to write letters, whether due to dysgraphia, anxiety, or simply struggling to express things clearly, you’re not alone.

At LetterLab, we help people communicate when the words won’t come easily. Whether it’s a heartfelt letter to a family member, an appeal to an authority figure, or something more formal like a job application or support claim, we work with you to shape what you need to say into something that reads with warmth, clarity, and dignity.

It’s not just about the mechanics of writing. It’s about being heard.

In summary

When someone can’t write letters, either physically or due to processing challenges, the most likely cause is dysgraphia. This condition affects handwriting and letter formation, and although it can be lifelong, support and adaptations make a huge difference.

If letter writing feels impossible, know that help is available. Whether you're seeking tools to manage dysgraphia or you’d prefer someone to write on your behalf, the goal is the same: to express yourself without fear or frustration.

Need help with letter writing? Visit LetterLab the UK’s expert letter writing service and let us take the pressure off your pen.