How to Write Devanagari Script: Step-by-Step Guide

Writing Devanagari script is an essential skill for Hindi learners. This step-by-step guide teaches you proper stroke order and writing techniques.

Understanding Devanagari

Features:

Written left to right

Horizontal line (शिरोरेखा - shirorekha) connects letters

No uppercase/lowercase distinction

Vowels and consonants combine

Writing Vowels (स्वर)

Short Vowels

**अ** (a) - Start with curve, add vertical line

**इ** (i) - Vertical line with hook

**उ** (u) - Semi-circle with tail

Long Vowels

**आ** (aa) - Vertical line, add curve

**ई** (ee) - Like इ with longer hook

**ऊ** (oo) - Like उ with longer tail

Practice all vowels with our [Barakhadi chart](/barakhadi).

Writing Consonants (व्यंजन)

Basic Consonants

**क** (ka) - Two vertical lines, shirorekha

**ख** (kha) - Like क with diagonal

**ग** (ga) - Vertical line, curved bottom

Stroke order matters! Write top to bottom, left to right.

Combining Letters

Matras (Vowel Signs)

When vowels follow consonants, they become matras:

क + आ = का (kaa)

क + इ = कि (ki)

क + ई = की (kee)

Writing Tips

1. Maintain the Shirorekha

The horizontal top line should be straight and connect all letters in a word.

2. Proper Spacing

Leave small gaps between words, not letters.

3. Consistent Size

Keep letter height uniform.

4. Practice Daily

Write 10 letters daily. Use our [30 word meanings](/word-meanings/30-words) for practice words.

Common Writing Mistakes

Mistake #1: Incorrect Stroke Order

Learn proper order from the start.

Mistake #2: Wavy Shirorekha

Practice straight lines.

Mistake #3: Inconsistent Sizing

Use lined paper initially.

Practice Resources

Write the alphabet daily

Copy [Hindi sentences](/sentences/examples)

Use our [typing tool](/typing) to learn keyboard layout

Practice [numbers](/numbers) in Devanagari

Advanced: Conjunct Consonants

Two consonants together form conjuncts (संयुक्ताक्षर):

क + त = क्त (kta)

स + त = स्त (sta)

Learn these gradually after mastering basic letters.

Conclusion

Writing Devanagari requires practice but becomes natural with consistency. Start with vowels, add consonants, then practice combinations.

Use our [learn Hindi guide](/blog/learn-hindi-for-beginners) for complete beginner path!