To sign 'Tim', you will fingerspell the letters T, I, and M. Start by forming the letter 'T' with your dominant hand by tucking your thumb under your index finger. Next, transition to the letter 'I' by extending your pinky finger straight up while keeping the other fingers curled. Finally, form the letter 'M' by tucking your thumb under your index, middle, and ring fingers.
Point to yourself to sign 'MY', sign 'NAME' by tapping your 'H' hands together, and then clearly fingerspell T-I-M.
Fingerspell T-I-M, sign 'HERE' using flat hands making small circles, and raise your eyebrows to indicate you are asking a yes/no question.
Sign 'YESTERDAY' on your cheek, point to yourself for 'I', sign 'MEET' by bringing two '1' hands together, and then fingerspell T-I-M.
Point to yourself to sign 'MY', sign 'NAME' by tapping your 'H' hands together, and then clearly fingerspell T-I-M.
Fingerspell T-I-M, sign 'HERE' using flat hands making small circles, and raise your eyebrows to indicate you are asking a yes/no question.
Sign 'YESTERDAY' on your cheek, point to yourself for 'I', sign 'MEET' by bringing two '1' hands together, and then fingerspell T-I-M.
Yes, in ASL, you generally fingerspell a person's name. The exception is if the person is Deaf or active in the Deaf community and has been given a specific 'name sign'. Until you know their name sign, always fingerspell.
As a beginner, you should always prioritize clarity over speed. It is much better to sign T-I-M slowly and accurately than to rush and form the letters incorrectly. Speed will naturally develop with practice.
You should keep your hand relatively still and in a comfortable position, usually around shoulder height. Avoid bouncing or pushing your hand forward with each letter, as this makes it difficult for the receiver to read.
