The National Archives of Scotland (NAS) are pleased to announce that their palaeography website Scottish Handwriting.com has been redesigned.

The redesign brings the site into line with government guidelines on website accessibility and usability.

The purpose of the site is to enable users to learn how to read Scottish handwriting, in particular Secretary Hand, for the period 1500-1800.

There are interactive tutorials with a printable alternative for those who prefer pencil and paper; a coaching manual which includes sample alphabets and a problem solver; and information on Scottish handwriting activities throughout Scotland.

As any palaeographer knows, the only real way to learn to read older forms of handwriting is through practice. It is for this reason that a new poser is set each week.

The redesign has enhanced the weekly poser by linking each one to appropriate parts of the coaching manual, allowing the user to test themselves and to reinforce their learning.

Originally launched in April 2004, this popular site has seen a steady increase in use with several thousand visitors per month using its resources and it is hoped that the improved design will help even more users learn how to read older forms of Scottish handwriting.

The National Archives of Scotland will welcome any feedback on the new site.