Holding a pencil correctly requires strong finger muscle control to help produce legible writing and avoid discomfort

Dynamic tripod

Thumb, index and middle fingers work together allowing small, coordinated movements

Five-finger grasp

Movement is initiated primarily by the little finger

Thumb-wrap grasp

The thumb is used to stabilise the pencil rather than to assist with movements

Upright tripod grasp

Pencil is held low and is not resting between the thumb and index finger

Dynamic tripod

Thumb, index and middle fingers work together allowing small, coordinated movements

Thumb-wrap grasp

The thumb is used to stabilise the pencil rather than to assist with movements

Five-finger grasp

Movement is initiated primarily by the little finger

Upright tripod grasp

Pencil is held low and is not resting between the thumb and index finger