How do I use the written ASL dictionary? | How do I write in written ASL?

Current spacabulary count: 205
(Since the Dictionary is a work in progress, not all the handshapes/digits are represented here yet.)

How to Use the ASL Writing Dictionary

The ASL Writing Dictionary categorizes signs into 4 different levels.

• Level One: Handshapes
• Level Two: One Hand, Two Hands: Simultaneous, Two Hands: Dominant
• Level Three: Same Handshape, Morphing Handshapes
• Level Four: Body Position: Neutral, Head, Body

To find a sign, follow the steps below:

1. Find the first handshape used in the list of selections.
2. Choose whether the sign is used with
• one hand
• two hands at the same time
• or by two hands, one of which is the dominant hand.
3. Pick whether the handshape stays the same or morphs into a different handshape.
4. Finally, choose whether the sign appears
   • in the neutral area in front of you
   • close to your head
   • or close to your torso.

Alternatively, use the search form at the top of this page to find a sign using English.

[The category system for written ASL was invented by John Lee Clark, a DeafBlind writer.]