A method for use in a handwriting recognition system, and apparatus for accomplishing the method, that generates a User set of prototype symbols. The method includes the steps of (a) inputting one or more strokes for representing a predetermined symbol; and (b) comparing characteristics of the inputted strokes to stroke characteristics associated with one or more predetermined Starter prototype symbols. If the stroke characteristics match to within a predetermined threshold, the method further includes a step of (c) averaging the characteristics of the inputted stroke or strokes with the characteristics of a corresponding one or ones of the strokes of the matching one of the Starter prototype symbols to form a User prototype symbol. Further steps include (d) storing the User prototype symbol for subsequent use; and (e) deleting one or more Starter prototype symbols of the same label as the input symbol. If the stroke characteristics do not match, the method further includes the steps of (f) storing the characteristics of the one or more inputted strokes as the User prototype symbol for subsequent use; and (g) deleting the one or more Starter prototype symbols. A counter is maintained and deletes the Starter set only after a predetermined number of instances of the symbol have been entered by the user.
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