Hindi Typing - Transliteration and Input Methods
Phonetic Typing vs. Inscript
Phonetic typing and Inscript are two different keyboard input methods used for typing in the Devanagari script, which is the script used for languages like Hindi, Marathi, and Sanskrit. Here's an overview of both methods:
Phonetic Typing:
Phonetic typing, also known as transliteration typing, is a method of typing where you type the phonetic equivalent of the Devanagari characters in Latin script (the script used for English and many other languages). Phonetic typing is based on the pronunciation of words rather than the placement of keys on the keyboard.
For example, in the phonetic method, you would type "n-a-m-a-s-t-e" to represent the Devanagari word "नमस्ते," which means "hello."
Pros of Phonetic Typing:
It's easy to learn and doesn't require memorizing complex keyboard layouts.
It's particularly helpful for people who are not accustomed to the traditional Inscript keyboard layout.
Cons of Phonetic Typing:
It can sometimes lead to ambiguity because some words may have similar phonetic representations.
It may not be as efficient for those who are already familiar with the Inscript layout.
Inscript Keyboard Layout:
The Inscript keyboard layout is the official standard for typing in the Devanagari script. It's designed to correspond closely with the arrangement of characters on a traditional Devanagari script typewriter.
In the Inscript method, you need to press keys corresponding to the specific characters in the Devanagari script. For example, to type "नमस्ते," you would press "न" by using the key 'k' in the Inscript layout, and so on.
Pros of Inscript Keyboard Layout:
It provides a one-to-one mapping between keys and Devanagari characters, making it highly efficient for experienced users.
It's the official and standardized method for typing in Devanagari.
Cons of Inscript Keyboard Layout:
It may be challenging to learn for those who are not already familiar with the layout.
Some users find it less intuitive, especially if they are accustomed to the Latin script.
Which method to choose depends on your familiarity with the layout and your typing needs. If you are new to typing in Devanagari, starting with phonetic typing might be more accessible. However, if you need to type in Devanagari frequently and want to be more efficient, investing time in learning the Inscript layout may be a better choice.
In both methods, you can use dedicated software or online tools that support Hindi typing to simplify the process. These tools often provide visual keyboard layouts and typing aids, making it easier to get started with either method.
Typing in Romanized Hindi
Typing in Romanized Hindi, also known as Romanization or transliteration, involves representing Hindi words using the Latin script (the script used for English). This method is helpful for individuals who are not familiar with the Devanagari script or do not have access to a Hindi keyboard layout. Romanized Hindi allows you to type Hindi words phonetically using the English alphabet. Here's how you can type in Romanized Hindi:
1. Standard Romanization:
For standard Romanization, you can follow a set of conventions to represent Hindi sounds with Roman letters. For example:
"नमस्ते" (Namaste) is typed as "namaste."
"आपका स्वागत है" (Aapka Swagat Hai) is typed as "aapka swagat hai."
2. Online Romanization Tools:
There are online tools and websites that allow you to type in Romanized Hindi. You can enter the Romanized text, and the tool will automatically convert it to Devanagari script.
3. Input Method Editors (IMEs):
Some devices and operating systems come with built-in IMEs that support Romanized Hindi input. You can enable the Hindi IME and start typing in Romanized Hindi, which will be converted to Devanagari script.
4. Smartphone Keyboards:
Many smartphone keyboards, including those on Android and iOS devices, support Romanized Hindi input. Simply select Hindi as your input language, and you can type in Romanized Hindi.
5. Transliteration Software:
Transliteration software applications are available for Windows and macOS. These tools allow you to type in Romanized Hindi and then convert it to the Devanagari script. Some popular options include Google Input Tools and Baraha.
When using Romanized Hindi, it's important to be consistent in your transliteration approach, as there can be variations in Romanization conventions. Additionally, note that Romanized Hindi does not fully capture the nuances of Hindi pronunciation and may not be suitable for formal or official documents. For more accurate representation, especially in professional settings, using the Devanagari script or the Inscript keyboard layout is recommended.
Switching Input Methods
Switching between input methods, including language and keyboard layouts, is a common task when typing in different languages or scripts on your computer. Here's how to switch input methods on both Windows and macOS:
Switching Input Methods on Windows:
Using the Taskbar:
On the Windows taskbar, look for the language or keyboard layout icon. It may look like a language abbreviation (e.g., "EN" for English) or a keyboard icon.
Click on the icon, and a list of available input methods will appear.
Select the desired input method (e.g., Hindi Inscript, Hindi Phonetic, or another language) from the list.
Keyboard Shortcut:
You can use the keyboard shortcut "Alt + Shift" to cycle through the input methods you have enabled on your computer.
Language Settings:
Open the Windows settings by pressing "Windows + I."
Go to "Time & Language" and select "Language" from the left sidebar.
Under "Preferred languages," you can add languages and manage their input methods.
Switching Input Methods on macOS:
Using the Menu Bar:
Look for the language or flag icon in the menu bar at the top right corner of the screen.
Click on the icon to display a list of available input methods.
Select the desired input method, such as "Hindi" or "Hindi Inscript."
Keyboard Shortcut:
Use the keyboard shortcut "Control + Space" to switch between input methods. This will cycle through the enabled input methods.
System Preferences:
Open "System Preferences" from the Apple menu or by pressing "Command + Space" and typing "System Preferences."
Select "Keyboard."
In the "Input Sources" tab, you can add and manage input methods for different languages.
Please note that the specific steps may vary slightly depending on your Windows or macOS version. Additionally, you need to have the relevant input methods and languages installed on your computer for this to work.
After switching to the desired input method, you can start typing in the chosen language or script. Whether you're typing in Hindi or another language, using the correct input method ensures that your keystrokes are interpreted correctly and that you can efficiently type in your chosen language.
Transliteration Tools
Transliteration tools are software or online services that allow you to convert text from one script to another while maintaining the pronunciation of the words. Transliteration is especially useful for typing in a script or language that you are less familiar with, as it allows you to type using the Latin script and then converts your text into the target script. Here are some popular transliteration tools and resources:
Google Input Tools:
Google Input Tools provides a virtual keyboard and transliteration for several languages, including Hindi. It allows you to type in Romanized Hindi, which is then converted into the Devanagari script.
Baraha:
Baraha is a popular transliteration software for typing in Indian languages, including Hindi. It provides a user-friendly interface for Romanized Hindi input, and you can easily switch between languages.
Quillpad:
Quillpad is an online transliteration tool that supports various Indian languages, including Hindi. It allows you to type in Romanized Hindi and converts it into the Devanagari script as you type.
Google Input Tools Extension for Chrome:
This extension allows you to use Google Input Tools directly within the Google Chrome browser. It's convenient for typing in different languages on websites.
Indic Input Tool by Microsoft:
Microsoft's Indic Input Tool supports typing in multiple Indian languages, including Hindi. It offers both a virtual keyboard and transliteration options.
Google Indic Keyboard (Android App):
If you're typing in Hindi on an Android mobile device, the Google Indic Keyboard app provides transliteration support. You can switch between languages and use a phonetic keyboard for Hindi input.
Online Transliteration Tools:
There are various online transliteration tools and websites that allow you to type in Romanized Hindi and convert it to the Devanagari script. Examples include i2Type, Branah, and Easy Hindi Typing.
Microsoft Office Language Options:
Microsoft Office applications, such as Word, may have built-in transliteration tools and language options for typing in various languages, including Hindi. These options can be accessed from the language settings in Office.
Customized Transliteration Tools:
Some websites and software applications offer customized transliteration tools for specific languages and scripts. These tools may be tailored to your specific needs.
These transliteration tools can be helpful for users who are more comfortable with the Latin script or who want to type in a language they are not completely proficient in. When using transliteration tools, ensure that you choose the correct language and script settings to ensure accurate conversion from Romanized text to the target script, such as Devanagari for Hindi.
