How to Sign "Check"

Hold your non-dominant hand flat in front of you with the palm facing up, representing a piece of paper or a list. With your dominant hand, extend your index finger while keeping your other fingers closed. Use your dominant index finger to draw a quick "checkmark" shape directly on the palm of your non-dominant hand.

Examples Using "Check" in a Sentence

1

Let me check my list.

Sign 'list' and then use the sign for 'check' to show you are reviewing and verifying the items on it.

2

Please check your work before submitting.

Use the sign for 'check' to emphasize the action of reviewing or verifying the assignment for accuracy.

3

I need to check my schedule.

Sign 'schedule' followed by 'check' to indicate that you are looking over your planned events to confirm your availability.

How to Sign "Check"
Hold your non-dominant hand flat in front of you with the palm facing up, representing a piece of paper or a list. With your dominant hand, extend your index finger while keeping your other fingers closed. Use your dominant index finger to draw a quick "checkmark" shape directly on the palm of your non-dominant hand.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly visual and literal. The flat, non-dominant hand represents a piece of paper, a document, or a to-do list. The dominant index finger acts as a pen or pencil. The motion mimics the exact real-world action of physically drawing a checkmark to verify something or mark an item as complete.
Signing Tips
Make sure the movement of your dominant index finger is quick and sharp, just like you are drawing a real checkmark with a pen. Keep your non-dominant hand steady and flat to clearly represent the paper or list you are checking off.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is drawing a straight line across the palm instead of a distinct 'V' or checkmark shape. Another mistake is using a flat hand instead of isolating the index finger; remember, your dominant hand should look like a pen making a specific mark.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Check" in a Sentence
1

Let me check my list.

Sign 'list' and then use the sign for 'check' to show you are reviewing and verifying the items on it.

2

Please check your work before submitting.

Use the sign for 'check' to emphasize the action of reviewing or verifying the assignment for accuracy.

3

I need to check my schedule.

Sign 'schedule' followed by 'check' to indicate that you are looking over your planned events to confirm your availability.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this sign for a bank check?

No, this specific sign is used for checking off a list, verifying information, or a literal checkmark. A bank check is signed differently, usually by using your thumbs and index fingers to draw the rectangular shape of a paper check.

Does it matter which hand I use as the 'paper'?

Yes, you should always use your non-dominant hand as the flat 'paper' base. Your dominant hand, which you naturally write with, should act as the 'pen' drawing the checkmark.

How big should the checkmark motion be?

Keep the movement relatively small and contained within the palm of your non-dominant hand. It should be a quick, sharp flick of the wrist, just like making a quick mark on a real piece of paper.

ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!