The sooner you figure out how you will write the word “and” on your machine, the better. Like most high frequency words, it is beneficial to be able to phrase, “and.” [NOTE: An Oxford study has "and" listed as the 5th most frequently used word.]

When I was taught theory, I was taught to write the word “and” on the machine as AND. In countless hours of practice, I wrote AND without being able to phrase it, due to its being comprised of the final -D stroke. It wasn’t until I finished 8 months of theory and a number of months in low-level speed classes that I discovered writing “and,” SKP-. This method allows for phrasing of the oft-heard word.

It was difficult for me to change the way I wrote “and” after being accustomed to stroking the word out as a lone word. As it is said, “practice makes permanent.” However, I saw a great benefit in amending the way I wrote the word. Phrasing would allow me to eliminate a stroke and quicken my writing.

Due to the immense effort that it takes to amend a mentally solidified stroke, the sooner you figure out how to write your words, particulary high-frequency words, the better off you will be in terms of speed advancement.

Check back tomorrow for Friday Phrases, part 1 of “and phrases.” I currently have over 500 “and phrases” in my dictionary I would like to share. Also, please note that you should use phrasing as you see fit.

Love, Speed and Accuracy,

Starface