Fingerspelling
Fingerspelling can be compared to ASL’s version of the English alphabet. Please note that ASL has it’s own equivalent to the English alphabet which consists of a separate set of hand shapes used to compile words within ASL. Fingerspelling is different. Fingerspelling is the adaptation of the English alphabet converted into hand shapes/gestures.
While fingerspelling can help in a pinch and is very effective when you don’t know a proper sign, you don’t want to rely on it as a sole source of communication. If you’re trying to learn sign, you want to steer clear of simply spelling out every word you’re trying to get across.
Disclaimers aside, here are your basic alphabet and number charts:
→ Alphabet chart
→ Number chart
→ Watch video of fingerspelling the alphabet
