IPAbet

IPAbet is an extended US keyboard layout for macOS that enables direct entry of International Phonetic Alphabet symbols in any application. It addresses the need for fast, memorable input of IPA characters without relying on separate palettes, websites, or complex key combinations that disrupt normal typing workflows.

Unshifted keys produce standard US English letters, digits, punctuation, and shortcuts, allowing the layout to remain active all day. IPA symbols are generated through one- or two-keystroke combinations using Shift and Option modifiers. Examples include Shift-H after S to produce ʃ, Shift-H after 5 to produce ə, and Option-N followed by N to produce ñ. Digraphs draw from familiar English spellings such as sh, th, and zh, while diacritics occupy the Option layer in positions that align with existing macOS accent behaviors. Symbols lacking a clear Latin base begin from the number row. Caps Lock disables the IPA transformations, ensuring that sequences such as PATH continue to type as expected. Every key produces an output, and the IPA layer includes escapes for all claimed mappings.

The layout functions as a genuine input method rather than an on-screen tool, supporting entry into applications including Word, Praat, ELAN, LaTeX, Slack, and web browsers. It operates entirely offline. A single-page printable chart displays every symbol alongside its keystrokes and audio examples. An interactive guided course at the /learn path drills the mappings through real words starting from the first lesson.

IPAbet is free and open source. Installation involves downloading the IPAbet.pkg file, running the installer, logging out and back in, then selecting the layout from the macOS input menu. The tool is intended for linguists, researchers, and others who regularly enter phonetic transcription.