Pens seem like easy objects to grasp and lift off of a desk; yet, many students find themselves unable to lift them.

This instructable will teach any able-bodied student with at least one hand how to lift a pen from his or her desk.

Be sure to watch follow-up videos covering how to position a pen for writing, how to write a word, and expert-level how to write TWO words.

Step 1: Oooo... the Claw!

Reach toward the pen with your thumb positioned under your pointer finger. All five fingers should be oriented toward the pen.

Think of your hand as a crab claw, and keep your four fingers together.

Step 2: Pinch Without the "Ouch!"

Pinch the pen about a thumb's width above the pointy end. If your pen is capped, pinch the pen just below the cap.

Step 3: Tom Cruise That Pen!

With an established FIRM grip on the pen, move your hand away from the desktop.

Step 4: Turn It Over.

Turn your pen over by rotating the far side of your hand in toward your body.

Congratulations, you have just picked up a pen (hopefully not for the last time).