How to Learn Thai Writing
In the year 1283, King Ramakamhaeng created the first Thai alphabet, bringing a sense of unity and cultural pride to the Thai people. Originally a mixture of ancient Middle Eastern languages, such as Mon, Khmer and Pali, Thai has changed very little since its creation in the way it is spoken and written; modern Thai readers can easily understand manuscripts from the 13th century. Thai is a poetic language, pleasing to the ear when spoken and to the eye on paper, but requires patience of those learning it.
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Instructions
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Obtain a copy of the Thai alphabet or examples of Thai writing, either from the Internet, a bookstore or local library. Study the script, get used to its appearance and ask yourself if there are common features in every letter or word. Note how the Thai language does not use capital and small letters, unlike the Roman alphabet, but instead looks very uniform on the page. Minor pauses may be marked by a comma and larger pauses by a period but most often are marked by a blank space.
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Before investing in a script kit (such as one for Chinese), practice writing Thai with a plain piece of paper and a pen or pencil. Hold the pen or pencil lightly, yet with some pressure, and practice the graceful motions that come with writing this Asian language. Don't worry if your writing looks sloppy at first. With patience and practice, you will gain the basic motions.
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Notice the intimate loops and sudden serrated edges in each letter. When practicing the alphabet, note how almost all the letters have bold sides and light loops; this indicates how hard you should press down on the paper. Apply more pressure to match the bold shades and lessen pressure when the lines appear thin.
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As you practice writing the Thai alphabet, review the sounds that go with each letter. With enough consistent practice, you will be able to copy down basic words and pronounce their sounds. Outside help might be useful at this point in order to learn how different tones in certain letters can have different meanings.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't be too hard on yourself when first learning this language; all Asian languages are very difficult to learn. Practice your writing and language skills every day, or at least follow a schedule; consistency is key. Purchase CD's, audiocassette tapes, dictionaries, or other useful resources to learn Thai.
If you are adamant and passionate about learning Thai writing but do not think you are improving, then hire a private tutor.
