Recently a study proved that working from a larger, less cluttered computer screen increases concentration. I could have told them that. And yes, I write first drafts with a mechanical pencil and a yellow legal pad. There's good reason for this primitive behavior: I am a crackerjack typist. My hand moves far more quickly than my brain.

In this quote, Stacy Schiff, a renowned author and biographer, humorously reflects on her personal work habits and how they relate to recent studies about productivity. She references a study that shows how working from a larger, less cluttered computer screen can improve concentration, but she jokes that she already knew this from her own experience. Schiff then goes on to explain her preference for writing first drafts with a mechanical pencil and a yellow legal pad, despite being a skilled typist. She uses this as an example of her "primitive behavior", suggesting that her methods are based on what works best for her creative process, not on the latest technological trends.

The origin of this statement likely comes from Schiff’s experience as a writer, where she finds that the process of writing by hand is more in sync with her thought process. By mentioning that her hand moves faster than her brain, she is illustrating the challenge of keeping up with the flow of ideas when typing. Her preference for handwriting first drafts reflects the belief that the physical act of writing allows her to think more freely and creatively, which she feels typing cannot match in terms of speed and fluidity.

Schiff’s comment also speaks to the broader discussion of technology versus traditional methods in the creative process. While modern tools like computers and larger screens are touted for their productivity benefits, Schiff’s preference for manual methods underscores that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The choice between handwriting and typing is personal, and Schiff finds that working in a more tactile, analog way aligns better with her creative flow.

Ultimately, Schiff’s quote highlights the importance of understanding what works best for an individual’s creative process, regardless of what the latest studies or technological advancements may suggest. It underscores that productivity is not always about using the newest tools but about finding methods that align with one’s personal rhythm and mental flow.