Document Examination of Handwriting With a Straightedge or a Writing Guide

• NCJ Number: 128911
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 36 Issue: 2 Dated: (March 1991) Pages: 470-479
• Author(s): M Morgan; P Zilly
• Date Published: 1991
• Length: 10 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Survey
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Presented at the 42nd annual meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, Cincinnati, Ohio, February 19-24, 1990.

Annotation

Occasionally sighted writers practice "straightedge writing," sometimes referred to as "blind-man's writing," in which a straight object is used as a baseline. Many systems are used, and individual characteristics are established especially in the descenders (lower zone). Most of these writers try to be neat, yet wish to be unique.

Abstract

The writing of sighted people differs considerably from that of the functionally blind, who use many types of writing guides. Guides used by the blind are often flexible, yet confine writing to a given space instead of only using a straight line. For example, there are check templates which fit standard checks to keep the writing in certain areas for the visually impaired. The writing of a blind person is normally not as evenly spaced and precisely formed, and the "t" crossing and "i" dots are often missing. Such writing is individualized and identifiable. 12 figures and 3 references (Author abstract)