What condition might a student who struggles with writing legibly and holding a pencil have?

The condition described in the question involves difficulty with writing legibly and with holding a pencil, which aligns closely with dysgraphia. Dysgraphia is a specific learning disability that affects writing abilities, making it challenging for individuals to effectively express their thoughts in written form. Students with dysgraphia often struggle with the physical aspects of writing, such as forming letters, spacing, and maintaining the necessary grip on writing tools. As a result, their handwriting may appear messy or inconsistent, and they may find writing tasks particularly frustrating.

This condition is distinct from dyslexia, which primarily affects reading and language processing rather than the mechanics of writing. Dyscalculia refers to difficulties with math and number-related concepts, while dyspraxia involves challenges with coordination and movement that can affect a range of motor skills, including writing but is broader than just writing difficulties. In this context, dysgraphia is the most fitting diagnosis for the symptoms presented.