How to Type Arabic Words on Your Keyboard

Writing Arabic words on a keyboard might seem challenging initially, especially if you're used to a QWERTY layout. However, with the right knowledge and practice, you can master typing in Arabic characters efficiently. Let's delve into understanding the keyboard layout, and learn how to write Arabic words with confidence.

Arabic uses two main keyboard layouts: MS Arabic and AZERTY. The difference lies in the placement of specific keys. MS Arabic resembles the QWERTY layout, while the AZERTY layout is more commonly used in North Africa. We'll focus on both, ensuring you can adapt to any keyboard you encounter.

Understanding the Arabic Keyboard Layout

Both MS Arabic and AZERTY layouts are phonetic, meaning the keys correspond to the sounds of Arabic letters. Unlike the Roman alphabet, Arabic has no upper-case letters or distinct number keys, making it easier to navigate once you're familiar with the layout.

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Switching between English and Arabic

Most keyboards have a dedicated key for switching between Arabic and English text. On MS Arabic, this is typically Alt+Shift, while on AZERTY, it's often Caps Lock. Practice using this key combination to switch languages as you type.

the arabic keyboard touch type guide for kids and adults to learn how to use it

Here's a simple keyboard shortcut cheat sheet for MS Arabic:

Shift + key: Typing a vowel (e.g. Shift + a gives 'ā')
Ctrl + Alt + key: Special combinations (e.g. Ctrl + Alt + t gives the combine Hampza symbol)

Typing Numbers and Punctuation

an arabic keyboard is shown with the letters and numbers in green, black and white

Arabic numbers are written from left to right, just like English. The number keys on the numeric keypad display Arabic digits. Punctuation is similar to English, with the following exceptions:

Comma: Press ,
Semicolon: Press ;
Colon: Press :
Question Mark: Press ?
Exclamation Mark: Press !

Practice Makes Perfect

Now that you understand the Arabic keyboard layout, it's time to put your knowledge into practice. Start by typing simple words, then gradually move on to more complex sentences. Here are some exercises to help you improve your skills:

Tongue Twisters

an image of a keyboard with arabic letters on the keys and numbers for each key

a black and blue computer keyboard with arabic writing on the bottom half of the keyboard

How to write Muhammad SAW Arabic on word

an old manuscript with arabic writing on it

a computer keyboard with arabic and english symbols on the keys, which are highlighted in red

a keyboard with arabic writing on the keys and numbers in different languages, including letters

Tongue twisters can help you get familiar with Arabic sounds and letters. Try typing these:

dispostion ( Colón ya'fā")
city metro ( Madīnah tunystyrene")

Transliteration

Transliterate English words and phrases into Arabic. Here are a few examples:

Hello: سلام (Salām)
Goodbye: وداعا (-Wadā'ā')
Thank you: شكرا (-Shukra)

Now that you've learned how to write Arabic words on a keyboard, it's time to put your skills to the test. Start by typing simple words and sentences, gradually moving on to more complex texts. With practice, you'll gain confidence in typing Arabic characters efficiently. So go ahead, give it a try – the world of Arabic typing awaits!