whereas investigating endangered languages, many researchers turn into drawn to constructing literacy for those languages. despite the fact that, frequently their linguistic education has now not supplied functional counsel during this quarter. This e-book, with contributions by means of skilled practitioners, is helping fill this hole. either foundational thought and particular case reports are addressed during this paintings. Non-linguistic components are defined, really sociolinguistic concerns that verify acceptability of orthographies. A principled method of the extent of phonological illustration for orthographies is proposed, utilizing contemporary phonological idea. The thorny problems with tips on how to be certain note breaks and the way to mark tone in an orthography are explored. "Overly hasty orthographies" and some great benefits of permitting time for an orthography to settle are mentioned. rules of the foundational chapters are extra exemplified by way of designated case reports from Mexico, Peru, California, Nepal, and Southeast Asia, which vividly illustrate the range of neighborhood stipulations that has to be taken under consideration. the combo of theoretical and functional makes this booklet certain. it's going to profit these enthusiastic about supporting determine orthographies for hitherto-unwritten languages, and supply concrete tips via an important matters. Michael Cahill (Ph.D. 1999, Ohio nation collage) built the Konni orthography in Ghana. He used to be SIL's overseas Linguistics Coordinator for 11 years, and is at the LSA's Committee on Endangered Languages and their maintenance. Keren Rice (Ph.D. 1976, college of Toronto) helped standardize the orthography of Slavey, and has taught on orthography improvement at InField/CoLang. She used to be LSA President in 2012 and is at present college Professor on the collage of Toronto.