A method for recognition of a handwritten pattern comprising one or more curves is presented. The method comprises a step of receiving sample data representing the handwritten pattern. The method further comprises a step of segmenting the handwritten pattern by detecting segmentation points on each curve, and by dividing the handwritten pattern into segments. Further, the method comprises a step of comparing the handwritten pattern to templates wherein the comparing comprises a step of normalizing said segments according to a scheme which is independent of the templates to which the segments are to be compared, and a step of determining matching measures for selecting at least one sequence of templates representing a recognintion candidate of the handwritten pattern.