Braille Translator

Translate English text to braille and braille back to text, using uncontracted (Grade 1) braille with capital and number signs and basic punctuation. Copy the Unicode braille output, swap direction, and see every letter, number and sign as a dot chart.

This tool runs entirely in your browser.

Loading tool…

How to use the Braille Translator

1Type text — or paste braille characters — in the input box.
2The direction is detected automatically; switch it or press Swap if needed.
3Copy the result, or use the chart to learn each letter’s dots.

What is the Braille Translator?

Each braille cell has six dot positions in two columns, numbered 1–3 on the left and 4–6 on the right. Letters a–j use only the top four dots; k–t add dot 3, and u, v, x, y, z add dots 3 and 6 (w came later, from French braille). A capital sign (dot 6) goes before a capital letter, and the number sign (dots 3-4-5-6) turns a–j into the digits 1–0.

This tool uses uncontracted Grade 1 braille, where each letter is spelled out. Most published English braille is contracted Unified English Braille (UEB), which uses shortcuts for common words and letter groups, and formal transcription follows detailed layout rules. Use this as a learning and reference aid, not as a substitute for a qualified transcriber.

Frequently asked questions

Can I print this for a blind reader?

Printed Unicode braille is flat, so it can’t be read by touch. Embossed braille needs a braille embosser or a transcription service — and most readers expect contracted UEB.

What is the difference between Grade 1 and Grade 2 braille?

Grade 1 spells every letter. Grade 2 (contracted) uses about 180 contractions, such as single cells for “and”, “the” and “ing”, making text shorter and faster to read.

Is the Braille Translator free and private?

Yes. The Braille Translator is free, needs no account, and runs entirely in your browser. What you type is never sent to a server or stored.

All text tools →