Tian zi ge, mi zi ge and blank Chinese writing paper

Hanzi Tools · Learning guide · Updated 6 November 2026

Tian zi ge (田字格) divides a square into four parts. Mi zi ge (米字格) adds diagonal guides. Plain square boxes leave the internal space open. All three can help you notice where strokes sit in relation to the whole character.

Choose a box size you can use comfortably

Large cells make it easier to see spacing and stroke direction. Smaller cells are useful when the form is familiar. There is no single correct cell size for every age, pen or purpose. Print a sample page before making a large batch.

Use the Chinese writing paper tool for blank grids. If you want characters, pinyin and tracing on the same page, use the Chinese worksheet generator.

Trace, copy, then recall

Watch a character in the stroke-order tool. Trace it a few times, copy it beside the model, then cover the model and write it from memory. Compare the result before repeating. Filling a page without checking can make a mistaken proportion feel familiar.

Try a small group such as 学、习、中、文. Keep the character in a word whenever possible: 学习 gives 学 and 习 a shared context. Read the word after writing it.

Check the printed page

Select A4 or Letter to match your paper. In the print dialog, inspect the preview and scaling. The result can use Chinese fonts available on your computer, so character appearance may differ across devices. Save a PDF if you need to send the same layout to someone else.