How to Sign "Go To"

Form both hands into "1" handshapes with your index fingers extended and your other fingers curled into your palms. Start with your hands in front of your body, palms facing each other or slightly forward. Move both hands forward together in a smooth arc, pointing your index fingers toward your intended destination.

Examples Using "Go To" in a Sentence

1

I need to go to the store.

Sign "I", "need", then use the "go to" sign moving outward from your body, followed by the sign for "store". The direction of your "go to" sign can point generally forward, or you can point it toward the specific area where you previously established the store in your signing space.

2

Are you going to the party?

Point directly to the person for "you", sign "go to" moving forward, and then sign "party". Because this is a yes/no question, remember to keep your eyebrows raised and lean forward slightly while signing the entire sentence to show you are asking for a response.

3

We went to the park yesterday.

Start by signing "yesterday" to establish the timeline, point to yourself and others for "we", use the "go to" sign, and finish with "park". ASL doesn't change the verb for past tense; the time word "yesterday" already makes it clear that the action has happened.

How to Sign "Go To"
Form both hands into "1" handshapes with your index fingers extended and your other fingers curled into your palms. Start with your hands in front of your body, palms facing each other or slightly forward. Move both hands forward together in a smooth arc, pointing your index fingers toward your intended destination.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic and visually logical, making it easy for beginners to remember. The two extended index fingers represent a person's legs or an entity moving from a starting location to a new place. The forward arcing motion visually traces the actual path of travel toward a specific destination. By physically pointing out the route, the sign perfectly captures the concept of moving from point A to point B in the real world.
Signing Tips
"Go to" is a directional verb, meaning you can change the direction of the movement to show exactly where you are going. If you are going straight ahead, move your hands straight forward. If the place you are referring to is located to your right, arc your hands toward the right side of your signing space. Keep your movements clear and deliberate, and let your eyes follow the direction of your hands to emphasize the destination.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is keeping their hands too stiff or only using one hand when first learning. While a one-handed version exists in casual signing, the standard two-handed sign requires both index fingers to move together in a smooth, synchronized arc. Avoid pointing rigidly like a robot; your wrists should have a slight, natural flick as you indicate the destination. Also, make sure both index fingers point in the exact same direction.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Go To" in a Sentence
1

I need to go to the store.

Sign "I", "need", then use the "go to" sign moving outward from your body, followed by the sign for "store". The direction of your "go to" sign can point generally forward, or you can point it toward the specific area where you previously established the store in your signing space.

2

Are you going to the party?

Point directly to the person for "you", sign "go to" moving forward, and then sign "party". Because this is a yes/no question, remember to keep your eyebrows raised and lean forward slightly while signing the entire sentence to show you are asking for a response.

3

We went to the park yesterday.

Start by signing "yesterday" to establish the timeline, point to yourself and others for "we", use the "go to" sign, and finish with "park". ASL doesn't change the verb for past tense; the time word "yesterday" already makes it clear that the action has happened.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sign "go to" with just one hand?

Yes, in casual or fast conversation, many fluent signers use a one-handed version of "go to." However, as a beginner, it is highly recommended to practice the standard two-handed version shown here. This ensures your signing is clear and easily understood before you start adopting casual conversational shortcuts.

How do I show past tense, like "went"?

In ASL, verbs don't change their physical form to show past tense. You use the exact same sign for "go to" and "went." To show that the action happened in the past, you simply add a time sign like "yesterday" or "past" at the beginning of your sentence.

Do I always move my hands straight forward?

Not necessarily! "Go to" is a directional sign. If you are talking about going to a specific place that has already been established in your signing space—for example, a school placed on your left—you should physically move your hands toward that specific leftward direction.

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