How to Sign "Also" in ASL

The short answer

In American Sign Language (ASL), "also" is commonly signed with both index fingers. Extend the index finger on each hand and point both fingers forward with palms facing down. Bring the two fingers together side by side so they touch, then move both hands a short distance to one side and touch them together again. This sign is closely related to the ASL sign for "same," which matches its meaning: one thing is the same as, or goes along with, another.

Evidence gap: the material supplied for this guide did not include a confirmed dictionary entry, video or Deaf signer's description of this sign. The description above reflects how the sign is widely taught, but signs vary by region, community and context. Before relying on it, compare it with a reputable ASL dictionary video or ask a fluent Deaf signer.

Step by step

• 1. Make a "1" handshape on both hands: index finger extended, other fingers curled, thumb resting against the curled fingers.
• 2. Turn both palms down and point both index fingers forward, away from your body.
• 3. Hold your hands in front of your chest, in the neutral space where most signing happens.
• 4. Bring the sides of the two index fingers together so they touch.
• 5. Move both hands together a short distance to one side.
• 6. Touch the index fingers together again.

When "also" means "me too"

English "also" and "too" do not map one-to-one onto ASL signs. When you mean "me too" or "same here," many signers use a different sign: a "Y" handshape (thumb and little finger extended, middle fingers curled) moved back and forth between yourself and the person or thing you are agreeing with. This conveys "same as you" more directly than the two-index-finger sign. Which one fits depends on what you are trying to say, so think about meaning rather than translating the English word.

ASL also often shows "in addition" through context, sentence structure and facial expression, so a fluent signer may not use a separate sign for "also" where English would include the word. If you are unsure which sign fits, fingerspelling A-L-S-O is understandable, though it is less natural than the sign.

Checking your signing on camera

Recording yourself is a practical way to compare your sign with a reference video. A camera preview that opens only shows the app or browser has camera access; it does not confirm the recording is clear enough to read handshapes. Play the clip back and check these points:

• Framing: both hands, your chest and your face should stay in view throughout the movement, since the sign travels sideways and facial expression carries meaning in ASL.
• Lighting: light should fall on your hands and face from the front, not from a window behind you.
• Background: a plain, uncluttered physical background makes finger positions easier to see. Virtual or blurred call backgrounds can distort or cut off fast-moving hands, so test with them off if detail looks smeared.
• Motion clarity: if the touching fingers blur during playback, sign slightly slower or improve the lighting rather than assuming the sign itself is wrong.

Your own recording can confirm that your handshape, palm direction and movement match a reference. It cannot confirm that the sign is the one used in a particular Deaf community, so feedback from a fluent signer remains the most reliable check.