Choose a book or CD that teaches sign language for beginners. Most members of the deaf community in North America use American Sign Language. If you do not reside in the U.S., find a book or CD that teaches the sign language used in your country.
Begin learning sign language by following the instructions given in your CD or book. You will likely begin learning the sign language alphabet first. Become familiar with sign language as you work to memorize the letters of the alphabet. Practice the sign language alphabet daily until you have it memorized.
Practice "finger spelling" by using the alphabet to spell out the names of household objects or friends. It's more important to be accurate than fast; speed will naturally come as you become more proficient. Practice in front of a mirror to perfect your hand movements.
Learn the signs that represent words. Then, using the sign language words you have learned, begin creating sentences while remembering to use appropriate facial expressions. Signing along with simple songs or stories will make the process more fun and may help you improve your signing speed. Note that the syntax (word order) of American Sign Language follows different rules than that of spoken English. Continue practicing in front of the mirror to check your hand movements, body gestures and facial expressions.
Practice signing with someone proficient in sign language. Most sign language books and CDs advise new signers to communicate with more experienced signers as a way to improve sign language skills. Also, because it is extremely common to misinterpret how to make signs--and thereby learn them incorrectly--it is especially important to seek out a deaf person or other person with intimate knowledge of this complex language.