Are you left-handed? Even if your answer is no, you likely know that using a whiteboard as a left-handed writer can be challenging. It requires a different approach than that of a right-handed writer. Because we write most languages in the world from left to right, left-handed people run the risk of smudging what they’ve written as their hand slides over the text. Luckily we have smudge-free pen ink that left-handed writers can use. But dry erase markers are designed to wipe away from the whiteboard surface easily.
When you use our whiteboards as a left-handed writer, we don’t want the ink to smear on the side of your hand. So here are some tips that can help you to use a whiteboard more comfortably and effectively.
Pick the Right Whiteboard Marker
It’s important to pick the right tool for the job, even whiteboard markers. Not all dry erase markers are created the same. Look for a high-quality whiteboard marker that dries quickly and does not smudge easily. This will make your writing more legible and reduce the chances of accidentally smudging the board with your hand. However, even the most expensive dry erase marker needs a few seconds to dry which is why the next tips are important.
Adjust Your Writing Angle
Experiment with holding your hand and wrist at different angles to the board to find the one that works best for you. You may find that angling your arm slightly to the left or right allows you to write more comfortably and naturally. If you’re using a mobile whiteboard, position the board at an angle that feels comfortable.
Change Your Grip on the Marker
Holding the marker differently could make all the difference. Try holding your dry erase marker about two-thirds of the way down the barrel from the marker tip, between your thumb and pointer finger. This positions your hand farther away from the board to avoid smearing ink. Practice this technique so that you write easily and legibly. You should also consider using a grip aid such as a grip glove, which can make it easier to hold the marker and prevent your hand from slipping – especially when you’re holding the marker in this unique manner.
Be Aware of Your Writing Distance
Practice writing at an appropriate distance from the board so that you don't have to stretch your arm too far or get too close to the board, which can make it difficult to write neatly. Don’t forget to move your body as you write to avoid stretching and to give you better control of the marker, which can impact the legibility of your writing.
Write Neatly
Consider using a ruler or straight edge to help you write in straight lines and create precise diagrams or charts. If you don’t want to hold a ruler, you could use a magnetic vinyl ruler or another large straight magnet. When you write on the board, use large letters and numbers and try to avoid writing in cursive. This makes left- and right-handed writing easier to read. And you may find it easier to write in large print when you’re holding the marker between two to three fingers, as we suggested in previous tips. Writing neatly and legibly may give you a confidence boost and minimize any smearing.
Use a High-Quality Whiteboard
Even with all the tips in the world, you may still occasionally smudge dry erase ink before it dries. That’s why it’s important to use a high-quality whiteboard with anti-ghosting properties. If you’re able to purchase the whiteboard you work on, look for a board that erases easily, doesn’t ghost, and is scratch-resistant. As long as you properly maintain your board, you will be able to cleanly erase any ink smears on your whiteboard for years.
Key Takeaways
By using these tips, you can make using a whiteboard as a left-handed writer a more comfortable and effective experience. With practice and patience, you can master_new the art of writing on a whiteboard and communicate your ideas with clarity and precision.
Why Choose Us?
We are a woman-owned small business whose products are made in the U.S.A. We specialize in dry erase boards, dry erase wall coverings, portable dry erase units, high-quality custom printed whiteboards, fast shipping, and five-star customer service. Over the last three decades, we’ve worked hard to deliver industrial-quality whiteboard solutions that won’t hurt your budget.