How to Sign "I"
To make the sign I, take your dominant hand in the D handshape. You are going to point it at yourself to indicate I. In AsL we use the term "me: for I.
Examples Using "I" in a Sentence
1
I am learning sign language.
Begin the sentence by pointing your dominant hand in the D handshape directly at your chest to signify 'I', then follow with the signs for 'learn' and 'sign language'.
2
Can you help me?
After signing 'you' and 'help', finish by pointing to yourself. Remember that ASL uses this same pointing gesture for both 'I' and 'me'.
3
I like coffee.
Start by pointing to yourself with your dominant hand to establish the subject 'I', then transition smoothly into the signs for 'like' and 'coffee'.
How to Sign "I"
To make the sign I, take your dominant hand in the D handshape. You are going to point it at yourself to indicate I. In AsL we use the term "me: for I.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly intuitive and relies on a universally understood natural gesture. By physically pointing to your own body, you visually and spatially establish yourself as the subject of the conversation.
Signing Tips
When signing 'I' or 'me', make sure your hand is clearly pointing directly at the center of your chest. You can either lightly tap your chest or just point closely to it. Keep the movement simple, natural, and direct.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake beginners make is using the English letter 'I' handshape (with the pinky finger extended) to mean 'I'. In ASL, the pronoun 'I' is always signed by pointing to yourself, while the pinky handshape is reserved strictly for fingerspelling.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "I" in a Sentence
1I am learning sign language.
Begin the sentence by pointing your dominant hand in the D handshape directly at your chest to signify 'I', then follow with the signs for 'learn' and 'sign language'.
2Can you help me?
After signing 'you' and 'help', finish by pointing to yourself. Remember that ASL uses this same pointing gesture for both 'I' and 'me'.
3I like coffee.
Start by pointing to yourself with your dominant hand to establish the subject 'I', then transition smoothly into the signs for 'like' and 'coffee'.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a difference between the signs for 'I' and 'me'?
No, in ASL, the signs for 'I' and 'me' are exactly the same. You simply point to yourself for both concepts, as ASL relies on context and sentence structure rather than different pronoun forms.
Should I use the letter 'I' handshape with my pinky?
No, the pinky 'I' handshape is only used when fingerspelling English words. For the personal pronoun 'I', you should always point to your chest.
Do I need to physically touch my chest when signing 'I'?
You can lightly touch your chest with your index finger, or simply point very closely to it. Both variations are perfectly acceptable and clearly understood in everyday ASL conversation.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!