Rules For Fingerspelling

Where should your hand be positioned when fingerspelling?

• Below your waist

• Near your shoulder

• At shoulder height and in front of your dominant side

True or False: When fingerspelling double letters in ASL, you should always exaggerate the bounce to show both letters clearly.

• True

  You should always exaggerate the bounce so everyone within a five-mile radius can clearly see the double letters. If you don’t bounce dramatically, how will people know you’re spelling “banana” and not “bana”? Bonus points if you add jazz hands for extra emphasis!

• False

  The movement for double letters should be subtle—either a slight bounce or a small slide to the side. Over-exaggerating can make the fingerspelling unclear and unnatural.

Why is it important to fingerspell smoothly in ASL?

• It makes your signing look fancy and dramatic.

• It ensures clarity and makes it easier for others to read.

• It helps you spell words faster, even if they become harder to understand.