Keyboarding (typing) is a ubiquitous skill for most UK students, and most coursework essays must be word processed. However, few examinations, other than for students with disabilities, permit the use of a word processor. It is not known how students would respond given a free choice between handwriting and word processing in an essay examination. This study reports the findings when students were encouraged to choose between these methods of composition for an examination. Few opted to word process; the students' reactions immediately after the examination were obtained. The demands of essay examinations compared with assignments are identified and discussed, and implications for future enquiries are considered. (Contains 6 tables and 1 figure.)