How to Write 4 in Cursive
Cursive 4 is unique among the digits because it almost always requires a pen lift, breaking the otherwise unbroken flow of cursive numerals. The digit can be written in two main styles: the open-top 4 (with a triangular gap at the top, common in modern handwriting) and the closed-top 4 (with a small triangle, more common in print and formal scripts). In both cases, getting the angles and crossbar right is what separates a clean 4 from a wobbly mess.
Our Original Fonts: 4
Preview our original downloadable typefaces first. The samples show decorative numeral shapes, not handwriting instruction.
Public Google Fonts
Then compare the numeral across public cursive and calligraphy fonts, from formal scripts to casual handwriting.
Tangerine
Dancing Script
Great Vibes
Parisienne
Sacramento
Kaushan Script
Alex Brush
Caveat
Mr De Haviland
Satisfy
Allura
Yellowtail
Arizonia
Bad Script
Berkshire Swash
Marck Script
Petit Formal Script
Pinyon Script
Italianno
Niconne
Quintessential
Style Script
Carattere
Ephesis
Luxurious Script
Bilbo Swash Caps
How to Form the Cursive Number “4”
Start at the top-left, slightly below the numeral height. Pull a diagonal stroke down and to the right toward the midline. Without lifting, change direction and draw a horizontal stroke to the right. Lift the pen, return to the top of the descending diagonal, and pull a vertical stroke straight down through the horizontal to the baseline. The two strokes form a clear cross at the midline.
- ✗ Making the vertical stroke crooked or slanted, unbalancing the digit
- ✗ Letting the horizontal crossbar extend too far past the vertical stroke
- ✗ Forgetting the pen lift and trying to draw 4 in one continuous motion, which produces a tangled shape
- ✗ Drawing the diagonal too steep, so the upper triangle becomes a sliver
Digits Often Confused with “4”
Where You'll Use the Cursive Number “4”
Real-world contexts where the digit 4 commonly appears in handwritten cursive.
- Years like '2024', '1944', and '2040'
- Times such as '4:00 PM' on invitations
- Anniversary milestones — '4 years', '40 years', '44th'
- House numbers like '44 Cedar Lane'
- Sports jersey numbers — '4', '14', '44'
- Recipe quantities — '4 oz', '4 cups'
Practice Tips for Cursive “4”
- 1Accept the pen lift — trying to write 4 in a single stroke produces an awkward shape in nearly every cursive style.
- 2Practise the diagonal-and-horizontal first, then add the vertical separately so each stroke has its own muscle memory.
- 3Make sure the vertical stroke crosses through the horizontal, not just touches it; the cross is what defines the digit.
- 4Use a midline guide so the horizontal sits at the same height across every 4 you write.
Keep practising on paper
The Dancing Script pack includes five numeral lessons as well as the alphabet. Start with the free 0-9 reference if you only need a model beside your paper.
- Complete Alphabet & Numbers - Modern Cursive (Dancing Script)$6 · 35 pages
- Cursive Numbers 0-9 Reference - Modern Cursive (Dancing Script)Free · 1 page
Browse all free printables (no account needed), or see the paid packs in our shop.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cursive 4
How do you write the number 4 in cursive?
Open-top or closed-top 4 — which should I use in cursive?
Can I write cursive 4 in one stroke?
Why is cursive 4 considered hard?
Learn More
Cursive Letters A–Z
Stroke guides, font showcases, and practice tips for every letter of the cursive alphabet.
Cursive Generation
Type any text or numbers and compare cursive font previews.
Practice Sheet Generator
Create custom printable worksheets for handwriting drills and number practice.
Calligraphy Alphabet Guide
Letter formation across Gothic, Italic, Copperplate, and modern scripts.