How to Fingerspell in American Sign Language

Learn the correct way to fingerspell in American Sign Language. You'll love being able to speak with your hands. Fingerspelling is where you write out words from the alphabet, but instead of writing them on paper, you write them out in the air. Twenty-six hand positions represent the alphabet.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Learn the American Manual Alphabet from A to Z.

2. Use proper hand position when fingerspelling. Hold your arm in a comfortable position with the palm of your hand facing the person or people you are talking with at a slight angle. It is important to see lip movement so hold your hand in on a level that your hand does not cover your mouth, but also close enough that the other person can easily see both your mouth and your hand to be able to read both simultaneously.

3. Maintain a good rhythm. Sign each letter clearly and distinctly. Pause slightly between words by holding the last letter of the word for a moment before beginning the next word. Do not drop your hands between words.

4. Say the word as you fingerspell it. The word, not each individual letter. Unless you are interpreting for another speaker, then you will use silent lip formation. In other words, mouth it, without vocalization.

5. Open the hand slightly for double letters to indicate that the letter is being made twice. Don't jerk your hand. For letters that are already open, move from left to right with a soft bounce to show the separation.

6. Show letters that are abbreviations rather than words by moving your hand in a slight circle when you form the letter's sign.

7. Practice. Start with two or three letter words and work your way up. Practice with a partner and also practice in a mirror so you can see your hand positioning and rhythm.

Resources

• American Manual Alphabet Chart