Cursive P
Tutorial & Printable Worksheets (Uppercase + Lowercase)
On this page, you’ll learn how to write uppercase and lowercase cursive P with easy, step-by-step instructions. Also, download free printable worksheets to trace and practice the cursive letter P.
Download Free Printable Cursive P Worksheets
Practice cursive P the right way! Download free printable cursive P worksheets for tracing and writing both uppercase and lowercase letters.
How to Write P in Cursive
Writing cursive P uses tall strokes and rounded loops. Follow the simple steps below to form both lowercase and uppercase cursive P neatly and consistently.
Lowercase Cursive P
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Start on the baseline. Sweep upward to the right until you reach the midline.
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Without stopping, pull your pen straight down, passing through the baseline and continuing down to the descender line (the line below the baseline).
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Trace back up the same vertical line you just made until you reach the midline.
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Curve out to the right and down to create a rounded "hump" or belly that touches the baseline.
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Curve back into the stem slightly and then flick out to the right to create your connecting tail.
The "Retrace" is Key: Don't lift your pen! The "p" looks best when you ride the stem back up to the top before making the belly.
Don't Go Too High: Unlike the "l" or "h," the lowercase "p" only goes to the midline, not the very top line.
Close the Belly: Ensure the bottom of the "p"'s belly touches or comes very close to the vertical stem at the baseline before you make your exit stroke. This prevents it from looking like a "js."
Uppercase Cursive P
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Begin at the top line. Pull your pen straight down (with a slight rightward slant) until you hit the baseline.
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As you hit the baseline, you can either stop or make a small, gentle curve to the left (like a tiny "j" hook) to give the letter a base.
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Lift your pen (or retrace back up the stem) to return to the top line.
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Starting from the top of your vertical stem, curve out to the right in a wide, rounded arc.
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Continue the curve downward until you reach the midline, then pull the stroke back into the vertical stem.
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Most people end the stroke right where it touches the stem at the midline.
The "Cane" Look: Think of the first stroke as an upside-down candy cane. It should be sturdy and provide a strong foundation for the loop.
Don't Over-Close: Unlike a printed "P," the cursive version often has a loop that just touches the stem rather than being "locked" to it. Some styles even leave a tiny gap for a more fluid look.
Proportions: The "head" of the P should take up the top half of the writing space (from the midline to the top line). If it's too small, it looks like a "D."
To Connect or Not? Usually, the uppercase "P" does not connect to the next letter because the pen finishes at the midline. Simply lift your pen and start your next letter at the baseline.
FAQs
The correct way to write cursive P is to start with a straight vertical stroke, then form a rounded loop. Lowercase cursive P goes below the baseline, while uppercase cursive P starts at the top line and forms a larger loop.
Yes, lowercase cursive P always goes below the baseline into the descender area. This deep stroke is what helps distinguish it from similar letters like cursive “b” or “h.”
Cursive P only reaches the midline at the top, while cursive b goes all the way to the top line. Also, cursive P has its loop near the baseline, whereas cursive b’s loop is higher.
No, lowercase cursive P should be written in one continuous motion. Retracing the stem without lifting your pen helps keep the letter smooth and balanced.
Usually, uppercase cursive P does not connect to the next letter. Since it finishes at the midline, it’s best to lift your pen and start the next lowercase letter at the baseline.
This often happens when the vertical stem curves too much or the loop is not closed properly. Keeping the stem straight and the loop balanced will improve the overall shape.
The best way to practice cursive P is by using printable cursive worksheets. Start by tracing, then move on to freehand writing while focusing on consistent height and smooth loops.
Yes, these free printable cursive P worksheets are perfect for beginners, kids, and adults. They provide guided tracing and writing practice for both uppercase and lowercase letters.
Yes, you can download and print the cursive P worksheets for personal, classroom, or homeschooling practice.