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Hindi, Marathi and Nepali are languages. A language can be written using an established script.
Visual context for step 1: Language carries meaning · UttaraPedia explanatory diagramUTTARAPEDIA · 2 / 8
Devanagari is a script used by more than one language. Seeing the script does not identify the language by itself.
Visual context for step 2: Script is the writing system · UttaraPedia explanatory diagramUTTARAPEDIA · 3 / 8
A font changes the shape and style of letters while the script and words can remain the same.
Visual context for step 3: Font changes appearance · UttaraPedia explanatory diagramUTTARAPEDIA · 4 / 8
Writing a Hindi place name in Roman letters represents its sound; it is not automatically an English translation.
Visual context for step 4: Transliteration changes script · UttaraPedia explanatory diagramUTTARAPEDIA · 5 / 8
A translated sign carries the meaning into another language. It may use the same script or a different one.
Visual context for step 5: Translation changes language · UttaraPedia explanatory diagramUTTARAPEDIA · 6 / 8
On a bilingual sign, place names may repeat while directions or descriptions change. Compare position and context.
Visual context for step 6: Look for shared names · UttaraPedia explanatory diagramUTTARAPEDIA · 7 / 8
Similar letter shapes occur across fonts and scripts. Read a short word or use an official map label for confirmation.
Visual context for step 7: Do not guess from one letter · UttaraPedia explanatory diagramUTTARAPEDIA · 8 / 8
Note language, script, font only if relevant, and transliteration. The full guide gives simple examples.
Visual context for step 8: Record all four layers · UttaraPedia explanatory diagram