According to the American Sign Language Institute, American Sign Language is the fourth most used language in the United States. Since the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990, a new era of communication between hearing and deaf communities has formed, and education systems from grade schools through university level have offered classes on signing. This comprehensive guide to using and understanding American Sign Language intended for both the hearing impaired, their friends and families, and the millions who have always wanted to know how to do it includes simple instruction on the alphabet, the hand symbols, what to do in cases of miscommunication, and listings of institutes and courses, as well as clear line drawings throughout.