�e shape of each letter, and how to write it correctly by hand, is best learned in a step-by-step approach, as presented below. �e practice space has been tailored especially for beginner Hindi writers. You can begin by tracing each letter and then proceed to write the letter independently in the space provided. Repeat this process until you develop �uency. Note that several of the Hindi vowels vary only slightly from each other in their shapes. For example, six out of the thirteen vowels consist of additions made to the �rst vowel अ (a). It is important to recognize the di�erences between them. In some cases, variation also exists between the handwritten and print forms. For example, the dots and hooks on the top and side of letters look fairly similar in the handwritten and print versions; however, some marks on top, such as on ऐ, ओ, and औ tend to have an open loop (like a balloon) in the handwritten version. Stark di�erences in print and handwritten are mentioned where applicable. At this early stage, the time and practice dedicated to carefully forming the shape of each letter and associating it with its unique sound will pay o� in the long run. �is knowledge pro- vides a solid foundation for better Hindi reading and writing ability.