Print k
In print, the lowercase letter k takes 3 strokes and is a tall letter that reaches the top line. Print letters (also called manuscript) are built from straight lines and circles, drawn top to bottom and left to right, with a lift of the pencil between strokes. This is the order most kindergarten and first-grade programs teach, so it is a good model for a child who is just starting. In English text k is the number 22 most common letter, at about 0.8% of all letters, so it comes up in fewer words than most letters.
A tall loop, then a small loop at the midline that kicks out to the right.
Stroke by stroke
- Start on the top line at the left side. Draw a straight line straight down, ending on the baseline at the left 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 just above the baseline at the left side.
- Lift your pen and start again just below the dashed midline at the middle. Draw a straight line down and to the right, ending on the baseline at the right side.
Common mistakes
Leaving the midline loop open and pointed, which gives an h.
k is most often confused with h. Put them side by side and check the first stroke: the starting point and the height are what separate them.
Words with k 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.
Words with k to practise
Questions about print lowercase k
How many strokes is the lowercase letter k in print writing?
3 strokes. Keep going without lifting unless the instructions say so.
Where do I start k in print?
Start on the top line at the left side. Draw a straight line straight down, ending on the baseline at the left side.
Is print k the same in every school?
Most programs agree on the shape, but some teach the stroke order differently. This page follows one common top-to-bottom, left-to-right order and says so, so if your school's handbook differs, follow the handbook.
What letter is k confused with?
k is most often confused with h. 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 k?
Yes. Open the worksheet maker, type kkk 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.