Essays
Does the AP Chinese Exam Test Handwriting?
Looking for the AP Chinese handwriting rubric? The exam is typed, not handwritten, so there isn't one. Here is what it actually tests and why writing still helps.
Lawrence Arya··5 min
Playbooks
Does the Business Chinese Test (BCT) Need Handwriting?
The BCT assesses practical business Chinese, and like most modern tests its writing is typed. Here is what it actually requires, and the real-world handwriting gap behind it.
Lawrence Arya··5 min
Playbooks
Can You Take HSK 5 Online to Avoid Handwriting?
Want to take HSK 5 on a computer to type instead of handwrite? Yes, the computer-based HSK is typed. Here is the catch, and why handwriting still helps.
Lawrence Arya··5 min
Playbooks
Failed Your TCM Chinese Written Exam? Study Plan
Failed a TCM Chinese written exam? It usually means recognition-based study left you unable to produce the terms. Here is the from-memory plan that fixes it.
Lawrence Arya··5 min
Playbooks
Do Connected or Cursive Strokes Lose Marks on HSK?
On HSK writing, characters should be clear standard-script forms. Connected or cursive strokes risk illegibility and lost marks. Here is how to write safely on the test.
Lawrence Arya··5 min
Playbooks
Can You Pass HSK 4 Without Writing Practice?
On the computer-based HSK you can often pass the writing section by typing, with little handwriting. Here is the honest catch, and why that pass can hide a real gap.
Lawrence Arya··5 min
Essays
TOCFL Band B and Handwriting: What Is Tested
Worried TOCFL Band B will penalize your handwriting? Here is what TOCFL actually tests, why the standard test is typed, and where the real handwriting gap shows up.
Lawrence Arya··5 min