This script looks flamboyant but it is, in fact, fairly controlled. This woman doesn’t show her feelings in public and will probably go quiet when she is unhappy. The middle zone (the interactive area) is formed and simplified, giving nothing away, whereas the upper zone (the goals, visions and dreams) and the lower zone (emotional and activity areas) are extended and expanded. In her private world there is a lot going on, but that will not be evident to those who don’t know her well.

The high, firm “t” bars tell us that she likes to make people aware of their duties; the loops on the “d” stems show her need for approval. She likes to be respected for her contribution, and would rather find out any faults herself than have them pointed out to her. That way she maintains her self-esteem and makes her own adjustments to provide what is wanted.

The loop in the centre of the lower case “m” also shows her wish to control others. Her focus is on getting things right for the general good. If the structure is right, the details should be adaptable to circumstances, shown by the mixture of joined and unjoined letters within the words.

The signature looks dramatic, but that is all in the capitals. It actually reflects the text and tells the same story. he wants to make the right impression, but to be organised and thorough when she needs to do a good job.

The long final stroke on the “e” tells of her ability to be generous and caring, but in a general, rather than personal, way. She is at her best dealing with facts, processes and information. She likes her own space and individuality, but sees herself as part of the social or work environment.

Claire (she signs herself Elizabeth) Browne is a learning support assistant at Bower Grove school, Maidstone, Kent It’s embarrassingly accurate. In some ways it makes me think I was only half aware of myself. I am a very controlled person, I don’t show my feelings, people don’t know what’s going on with me. I am a great one for organising things and I like to make people aware of their duties - it’s not what I want to be, but that’s me.

When I saw “Give us a hand”, I couldn’t see how it connected. Then by the third one, I thought “I must put in for it”.There’s nothing in it that isn’t me.

Elaine Quigley and Claire Browne were talking to Harvey McGavin. Does someone you know have unusual handwriting? Send an example - including signature - on unlined paper with contact details to Jill Craven, Friday magazine, Admiral House, 66-68 East Smithfield, London E1W1BX. You can email Elaine Quigley at equit.text@virgin.net