How Symbol Prediction Brings Meaning to Words

Annie Galvin, Product Owner, shares how symbol Symbol Prediction can enhance communication in Predictable.

Symbol prediction is a feature which I think can make a meaningful difference to how efficiently and confidently an AAC user communicates, and it’s one which I think is often missed or hidden away within Settings.

What is Symbol Prediction?

Symbol Prediction allows you to opt to include symbols within your word prediction strip. This means that as you type a word into the message window, the word prediction strip will update with predicted next words accompanied by our symbol set. This provides a helpful middle-ground to those transitioning between symbol-based and text-based AAC.

You are also able to extend this functionality to include symbols in the message window as well as your history and favourite strips for further support onscreen. 

Further Personalisation

Another aspect of Symbol Prediction that I really value is the ability to reassign symbols to different words. This means symbols can be made clearer, more meaningful, or more personal to the individual communicator.

For example, you might choose to use a photo of yourself to represent your name, a family member for theirs, or a familiar object for a frequently used word. These small personal touches can make communication feel more intuitive and relatable, while also improving recognition and speed.

Why is Symbol Prediction Important?

For many AAC users, symbols play a key role in understanding and expressing language. Combining symbols with word prediction offers several key benefits:

Increasing speed – For those who struggle with reading, having symbol support can speed up the selection of the next word, meaning that the intended message can be crafted more quickly.

Reducing frustration – Especially for those transitioning from symbol based solutions, having symbols available on screen as support can help to smooth the transition and improve confidence in using the new system. 

Supporting language development – seeing predicted symbols can help to model sentence structure and vocabulary. Over time, this can support literacy development and give users greater confidence in experimenting with new words and phrases.