Penny
8 April 2017
Typing Tildes & Spanish Punctuation - é ñ ü ¿ ¡
Ever wondered how to master typing those little squiggles, dots and quirky punctuation marks? You may have thought it involved some sort of program, toolbar or application - you'd be wrong! It's super easy to write Spanish punctuation on an English keyboard. Find out how in this article.
The Spanish alphabet is very similar to English, except for some eccentric embellishments - which should make typing easy! However the accents and punctuation marks are often a little bit misunderstood or under appreciated by students.
¿But who wouldn’t like the quirky little upside down question mark? ¡Or the extra exclamative exclamation point!
Of course there’s everyone’s favorite, little eñe – who separates the años (years) from the… anos (anuses).
Though sometimes students stress about the tiny tildes. Fear not! These only seek to alleviate your stress (well to áccurately lócate stress, actually). They make sure you put the correct emphaaaasis on the right syllaaaable.
Finally, don’t forget poor ü who helps puts the WEEEE in pingüino [PingWEEEEno] (Penguin)
Many students make the mistake of overlooking these little additions, seeing them as mere decoration when really, they are anything but ornamental. Learning to include them in all your writing will lift your Spanish to a new level.
But how to write them on an English keyboard?!
Even after accepting their importance, many don't bother to learn how to type Spanish accents in emails, social media and even assignments and homework…
¿But why? ¡When it’s so easy!
Just learn these little tricks, for both Mac and PC keyboards - give it a try!
Note: PC users will need to make sure they're using the 'US International Language' setting.
Did you find this article useful?
You may also like The 6 Scariest Spanish Verbs, or The Surprising Benefits of Being a Beginner.
Download a Printable Version
Take our course matching quiz
Not sure which course is right for you? We’ve got you – answer a few questions to find the right class for you. Select the option that’s closest to your level of experience.
What's your experience with learning Spanish?
None, I'm brand new to Spanish
We heart absolute beginners. No matter the reason for wanting to learn, we have a class style for you.
A little, I can speak some
Let’s build on those fundamentals! Progressing focuses on increasing grammar and vocabulary while building your speaking confidence.
Experienced, keen to improve
Here’s where you learn to become fluent and begin to build natural interactions.
More like this
Join El Patio teacher Patricio for a captivating introduction to Latin American culture - from food to artists and much more!
Penny
Australia's best-loved Spanish language school, now teaching in Melbourne CBD, Northcote, and Online. Learn Spanish socially - whoever and wherever you are.
Phil
Every language has it's nuggets of wisdom - those bite-sized proverbs that pack a punch of truth, wit and life lessons. In Spanish, they say: decir refranes es decir verdades - 'to speak proverbs is to speak truth'. When it...
Phil & Penny
Carousel
Carousel-
“
You can't do better than this school! It's a very well organised school. They have so many levels you will find the right class for you. Great teachers, fun and just the right amount of challenge.
-
“
After becoming frustrated at my lack of progress with their competitor, I received a recommendation for the classes at El Patio. Since enrolling I have never looked back.
-
“
I never shut up about how much I like my classes, pretty sure my colleagues and all my friends are getting sick of hearing about it.
-
“
After finding another company frustrating and unenthusiastic, El Patio has reinvigorated my excitement for learning Spanish...
-
“
The teachers are welcoming and seem to love what they do, which brings passion to each class. The homework and resources are highly organised and professional. I would highly recommend El Patio Spanish
-
“
As a retired teacher, I know good teaching when I see it, and the teachers at El Patio are absolutely wonderful - caring, professional and fun.