Cursive x
In cursive, the lowercase letter x takes 2 strokes and is a short letter that sits between the baseline and the midline. The model on this page is US Traditional, the connected style most American classrooms teach: the pen stays on the paper inside a word, and every letter is drawn to flow into the next. Press Play to watch the letter write itself, then use Step to move one stroke at a time. In English text x is the number 24 most common letter, at about 0.15% of all letters, so it comes up in fewer words than most letters.
The only lowercase letter drawn in two pieces: a curved stroke from top left down to the right, then a crossing stroke.
Stroke by stroke
- Start on the dashed midline at the left side. Curve down and to the right, ending just above the baseline at the right side.
- Lift your pen and start again on the dashed midline at the right side. Draw a straight line down and to the left, ending on the baseline at the left side.
Common mistakes
Drawing the printed x with two straight lines.
x is most often confused with r. Put them side by side and check the first stroke: the starting point and the height are what separate them.
Words with x to practise
Practice
Trace on screen first: press Trace it above and follow the grey letter. Then print the sheet and write the same letter on paper. Writing on paper is what builds the habit.
Questions about cursive lowercase x
How many strokes is the lowercase letter x in cursive writing?
2 strokes. Keep going without lifting unless the instructions say so.
Where do I start x in cursive?
Start on the dashed midline at the left side. Curve down and to the right, ending just above the baseline at the right side.
Is cursive x the same in every school?
US Traditional cursive is the connected style most American schools teach. Teachers may use a different model, such as D'Nealian or Zaner-Bloser, so a few letters (the capital G, Q and Z especially) can differ from your school's handbook.
What letter is x confused with?
x is most often confused with r. Put them side by side and check the first stroke: the starting point and the height are what separate them.
Can I print a practice sheet for x?
Yes. Open the worksheet maker, type xxx or a whole word, pick a line size, and print. The sheet has a dark model row, grey tracing rows, dotted rows and blank lines.