Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Exam"

To sign 'exam,' start with both hands in front of you, index fingers extended and pointing forward. Move both hands downward while transitioning them into open, flat hands with your palms facing down. This motion represents questions being laid out on a piece of paper.

Examples Using "Exam" in a Sentence

1

I have a math exam tomorrow.

Start by signing 'math,' then perform the sign for 'exam' using the downward motion with both hands transitioning to flat palms. Finish the sentence by signing 'tomorrow.' Keep your facial expression neutral as you state this fact.

2

Did you pass the exam?

Begin by signing 'exam,' then sign 'you pass?' It is crucial to raise your eyebrows and lean slightly forward at the end of the sentence to indicate that you are asking a yes/no question.

3

The exam was very hard.

Sign 'exam,' followed by the sign for 'hard.' To emphasize just how difficult the test was, use a strong, strained facial expression and make the movement for 'hard' sharp and deliberate.

How to Sign "Exam"
To sign 'exam,' start with both hands in front of you, index fingers extended and pointing forward. Move both hands downward while transitioning them into open, flat hands with your palms facing down. This motion represents questions being laid out on a piece of paper.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'exam' is highly iconic and grounded in the visual logic of a school setting. It visually combines the concept of asking questions—represented by the extended index fingers, which are often used in ASL to denote inquiry or questioning—with the physical act of laying those questions out on a piece of paper. The final downward motion with flat hands mimics the appearance of a test paper being placed flat on a student's desk.
Signing Tips
To execute the sign for 'exam' clearly, focus on the fluidity of your handshape change. Ensure the transition from the extended index fingers to the flat, open hands is a smooth, continuous downward motion. Your hands should move in unison, keeping symmetrical spacing. The final position with your palms facing down should be firm and deliberate, as if you are placing a test paper down on a desk. Keep your movements relaxed but precise to maintain clarity.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is keeping their index fingers extended the entire time without transitioning to the open, flat handshape. Another common error is moving the hands upward or outward instead of straight down. Make sure both hands are used; signing this with only one hand can confuse the meaning. Additionally, avoid making the downward motion too large or exaggerated—keep the sign comfortably within your signing space, right in front of your chest.
Regional Variations
Some signers may draw small question marks in the air with their index fingers before bringing their flat hands down, while others use a more direct downward motion.
Examples Using "Exam" in a Sentence
1

I have a math exam tomorrow.

Start by signing 'math,' then perform the sign for 'exam' using the downward motion with both hands transitioning to flat palms. Finish the sentence by signing 'tomorrow.' Keep your facial expression neutral as you state this fact.

2

Did you pass the exam?

Begin by signing 'exam,' then sign 'you pass?' It is crucial to raise your eyebrows and lean slightly forward at the end of the sentence to indicate that you are asking a yes/no question.

3

The exam was very hard.

Sign 'exam,' followed by the sign for 'hard.' To emphasize just how difficult the test was, use a strong, strained facial expression and make the movement for 'hard' sharp and deliberate.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'exam' the same as 'test'?

Yes, 'exam,' 'test,' and 'quiz' all generally use this exact same sign in ASL. You can rely on the context of your conversation to make the specific meaning clear, or mouth the specific English word if you need to distinguish between them.

Should I mouth the word 'exam' while signing?

While ASL is a distinct language that doesn't require mouthing English words, mouthing 'exam' can be very helpful in this case. Because the same sign is used for 'test' and 'quiz,' mouthing helps clarify the exact English translation you intend.

How large should the downward motion be?

The downward motion should be relatively small, controlled, and contained within your normal signing space. Move your hands down just a few inches in front of your upper torso to represent placing a paper on a desk, rather than making a large, sweeping gesture.

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