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This might seem like a silly conversation to have, but selection of a decent pen for taking notes is important, especially if you suffer from RSI. Often people select a pen based on looks alone, or they get one as a gift. But if you are going to purchase a new pen here are my top things to remember when shopping for a pen.

1. Grip

Most people hold a pen with their thumb, index, and middle finger. The ring finger and pinkie are normally held against the palm. The size of the pen can greatly affect your hold and therefore your speed. You should test all the pens you are looking at to see if you can hold it comfortable with your normal grip and that it doesn’t tire the muscles of you thumb. You need to make sure that you are holding the pen lightly.

Some newer pens come with a foam grip near the nib of the pen, but if you have selected a good pen for your hand size and typical grip this will not be required.

2. Size

In this case I’m not referring to the length or diameter of the pen but rather to the size of the tip of the pen. People write in different ways and you must determine how you write before you select a pen. For example if you write very small letters then you should consider a very fine point pen. If you write large letters then a broader tip would be best. However if you write quickly with small letters then you should consider a pen with a broader tip because it will put down more ink quickly.

Practice with each pen before you purchase so that you can see if the ink flows as you would expect for your writing style.

3. Carrying

I have put this section in just so I can talk about the pen I use, a “space pen”. I use this pen specifically because it will fit in my trouser pocket and I don’t have anything sticking out of my shirt pockets. In addition I have found that it is difficult to carry a longer pen while dressed in t-shirt and jeans, but a small space pen is perfect.

Obviously you’ll have different habits and requirements for your pen, and you might prefer long pens that will fit in your briefcase. However before you invest in a pen make sure that it is something you can take with you comfortably.

4. Use

When you hold a pen you should hold it so lightly that it could be snatched out of your hand easily. Holding the pen lightly will greatly reduce the chance of getting Repetitive Strain Injury.  If you are having a problem with RSI then you might want to check out the  Alternative Felix Healing Blog which has some methods for helping reduce injuries and the pain from them.

Make sure that your pen is working properly and the ink is flowing. Replace the ink if it begins to flow thinly or spotted. You need to ensure that you write with your entire arm not just your wrist. Moving your shoulder will help you keep your arm moving and it means that you are not “locking up” your wrist.

Maintain a proper 45 degree angle for the pen while you write.

5. Cost

Try to purchase the best pen that you can afford. Not only do you “get what you pay for”, but it also means that you are a lot less likely to leave the pen laying in a room somewhere forgotten.

RSI

It is interesting that in the United Kingdom, “Writers Cramp” a common form of RSI is a recognised industrial injury by the benefits agency. Writers cramp is formally known as “Dystonia” which is defined as “An abnormal tone of muscle, characterised by repetitive muscle contractions that may cause twitching or jerking movements.” Here are a couple of websites with more information about RSI.

• RSI Awareness
• NHS RSI Introduction
• Patient UK
• RSI Mailing List