How to Type Jawi Characters in Windows

Introduction

Jawi is a script used for writing the Malay language and several other languages in Southeast Asia. It is derived from the Arabic script with additional letters to accommodate sounds specific to Malay. Typing in Jawi on a Windows computer requires setting up the system to support the script and using specific keyboard layouts. This guide will walk you through the steps to enable and use Jawi typing on Windows.

Step-by-Step Guide to Typing Jawi on Windows

Step 1: Install Arabic Language Support

1. Open Settings:

• Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
• Navigate to Time & language.

2. Add a Language:

• Click on Language in the left sidebar.
• Under Preferred languages, click Add a language.

3. Select Arabic:

• Type Arabic in the search bar.
• Select Arabic (Saudi Arabia) or any other Arabic variant.
• Click Next and then Install.

Step 2: Add the Jawi Keyboard Layout

1. Open Language Options:

• In the Language settings, click on Arabic (or the specific variant you installed).

2. Add a Keyboard:

• Click Options.
• Under Keyboards, click Add a keyboard.
• Select Arabic (101) or Arabic (102).

3. Install Additional Fonts (if necessary):

• Some Jawi characters may not display correctly with default fonts. You might need to install additional fonts that support Jawi, such as Scheherazade New.

Step 3: Switch to the Jawi Keyboard

1. Switch Keyboard Layout:

• Press Windows + Space to switch between installed keyboard layouts.
• Select Arabic from the list.

2. Typing Jawi Characters:

• Open any text editor (e.g., Notepad, Microsoft Word).
• Start typing using the Arabic keyboard. Most Arabic characters are used directly, and additional Jawi characters can be typed using specific key combinations.
• For additional Jawi-specific characters like چ, ڤ, ڠ, and ڽ, you will need to use the appropriate key combinations which may vary slightly depending on the keyboard layout you chose.

Step 4: Learn Key Mappings

Typing in Jawi requires familiarizing yourself with the Arabic keyboard layout. Here are some key mappings for common Jawi characters:

• ا – Alif: A
• ب – Ba: B
• ت – Ta: T
• س – Sin: S
• ق – Qaf: Q
• ك – Kaf: K
• ء – Hamzah: Shift + A

For additional Jawi-specific characters like چ, ڤ, ڠ, and ں, you will need to use the appropriate key combinations which may vary slightly depending on the keyboard layout you chose.

Tips for Typing Jawi Efficiently

1. Use On-Screen Keyboard:

• If you are unsure about key mappings, use the on-screen keyboard as a reference.
• Open it by searching for On-Screen Keyboard in the Start menu.

2. Practice Regularly:

• Familiarity with the keyboard layout will come with practice. Regular typing will help you remember the key positions.

3. Customize Keyboards:

• If you frequently use Jawi, consider customizing your keyboard layout using tools like Microsoft Keyboard Layout Creator.

Conclusion

Typing Jawi on Windows is straightforward once the Arabic language support and appropriate keyboard layout are installed. By following these steps, you can enable Jawi typing and start using it for various applications. Regular practice and using tools like the on-screen keyboard can enhance your proficiency in typing Jawi characters efficiently.