YUNOVA · Urdu
Module 9: Reading Urdu texts
Reading Urdu newspaper headlines
Key points
- Urdu is written right to left in the Nastaliq style.
- Headlines drop small words, so read them for the key nouns and verbs.
- Common news words include hukumat (government) and intikhabat (elections).
Reading Urdu signboards
Key points
- Signboards use short words such as dakhla (entry) and khuruj (exit).
- Shop signs often write English words in Urdu script.
- Letters change shape depending on where they sit in a word.
Urdu reading practice
Key points
- Start with short texts and read them aloud.
- Note the letters that join only on the right, such as alif, dal and re.
- Read a little every day to build speed.