When you’re just starting your journey into American Sign Language (ASL), it’s easy to get overwhelmed by vocabulary lists and grammar rules. But here’s our approach: start with “survival signs.” These are the foundational signs that help you communicate right away — no fluff, no delay. They empower you to meet immediate needs, respond to others, and navigate real-world interactions from day one.
Because let’s be real: while “Hello” is a friendly opener, it won’t help you ask for help, clarify instructions, or thank someone. This guide introduces 10 powerful ASL signs that are practical, easy to learn, and crucial for everyday communication. Think of them as your toolkit for confident first conversations.
Why Survival Signs Matter in the Classroom
As someone who teaches ASL, I can tell you: survival signs are the heart of early ASL education.
These signs are basic, visual, and used constantly in day-to-day communication. Phrases like “Hello,” “Goodbye,” “How are you?” “Yes,” “No,” “I don’t understand,” and “I understand” form the backbone of American-style conversation.
In my own classroom, I emphasize survival signs from the start because students need to communicate basic needs right away. For example, if a student needs to go to the bathroom, I teach them how to sign:
“I go bathroom please.”
And I’ll respond with: “Yes” or “No.”
This small exchange reinforces their use of sign rather than speech and builds real-world application. When students rely on ASL instead of spoken English, it reinforces the idea that ASL is a complete, visual language — not just a translation tool.
If you’re teaching ASL, survival signs should be your first tool. They build student confidence, encourage sign-reliance, and make the classroom more inclusive from day one.
Why These 10 Signs Matter First
These signs were chosen because they are:
- Immediately Useful – They cover safety, needs, and everyday interaction.
- Socially Essential – They help you affirm, deny, ask, clarify, and express politeness.
- Confidence-Boosting – They empower beginners to engage and communicate right away.
Your First 10 ASL Survival Signs
Each description offers a starting point — for accuracy and fluency, always observe native signers on video platforms or use an ASL dictionary.
1. HELP
How: Make a thumbs-up (A-handshape) with your dominant hand and place it on your non-dominant flat palm. Lift both hands upward together.
2. STOP
How: Hold your non-dominant hand palm-up. Bring the side of your dominant hand down sharply onto it — like a karate chop.
3. YES
How: Make a fist (S-handshape) and nod it up and down like a head saying “yes.”
4. NO
How: Tap your index and middle fingers to your thumb repeatedly, like a talking beak.
5. EXCUSE ME / SORRY
How (Sorry): Make a fist and rub it in a small circular motion over your chest.
6. HOW ARE YOU?
How: Start with loose “5” hands near your chest, roll them forward into flat “B” shapes, then point outward. Raise eyebrows to show it’s a question.
7. UNDERSTAND / DON’T UNDERSTAND
How (Understand): Bring a closed fist to your temple, then flick your index finger upward.
DON’T Understand: Same motion, but shake your head.
8. THANK YOU
How: Touch your fingertips to your chin, then move your hand outward like you’re blowing a kiss.
9. PLEASE
How: Place your flat hand on your chest and rub it in a gentle circular motion.
10. WATER / DRINK
How (Water): Form a “W” and tap your index finger to your chin.
How (Drink): Mimic tipping a cup to your mouth.
What’s Next?
You’ve now unlocked a powerful foundation. Here’s how to keep going:
- 👁️ Watch videos from Deaf signers to learn flow and facial expressions
- 📘 Use ASL dictionaries like Handspeak or Lifeprint
- ✋ Practice real-life scenarios (e.g., ordering food, asking for help)
Final Thought
ASL is more than signs — it’s connection and culture. These survival signs help you jump into real communication and empower others to respond. Whether you’re a teacher or a student, this is where fluency begins.
Start here. Stay consistent. And sign with confidence.
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