Persian Alphabet: A Beginner’s Guide to Farsi Letters

Learning the Persian alphabet is the first step to understanding and using the Farsi language. Persian uses a version of the Arabic script, but it has four additional letters: پ، چ، ژ، and گ. In total, there are 32 letters, and the script is written from right to left.

Unlike English, Persian script is cursive, meaning that most letters connect to each other within a word. Also, there is no difference between uppercase and lowercase letters.

---

What Makes the Persian Alphabet Unique?

• Right-to-left direction: This might feel strange at first, but you’ll get used to it quickly.

• Cursive style: Letters often change shape depending on their position in the word—initial, medial, final, or isolated.

• Shared roots with Arabic: 28 of the letters are shared with Arabic, which helps if you already know Arabic.

• No capital letters: You won’t have to worry about switching cases!

---

The 4 Letters Unique to Persian:

1. پ (pe) – like “p” in “pen”

2. چ (che) – like “ch” in “chair”

3. ژ (zhe) – like “s” in “pleasure”

4. گ (gaf) – like “g” in “go”

---

Tips to Learn the Persian Alphabet:

• Start with isolated forms of each letter before learning how they connect.

• Group similar letters together by shape or sound. For example:

  • ب، پ، ت، ث (look alike)

  • ج، چ، ح، خ (similar structure)

• Practice writing daily—muscle memory helps a lot.

• Use flashcards with the letter on one side and its sound + sample word on the other.

• Read simple Persian words like بابا (baba), کتاب (ketab), or مادر (madar).

---

Conclusion:

Mastering the Persian alphabet might take some time, but with consistent practice and the right tools, it becomes fun and rewarding. Once you’re comfortable with the letters, you’ll be ready to move on to reading and writing real Persian words!