Reading
This sign corresponds to vowel sounds а and e of modern Kazakh language. For example, in word ( ) үзe /үстінде/ (upstairs) is read as e, in word ( ) асра /астында/ (downstairs) is read as a.
Differentiation
The sign as а and e can be differed by paying attention to double consonants followed by it. When a sign is next to the hard consonant of double consonant, it is read as a hard (а) and when it is next to the soft consonant it is read as a soft (e).
Place
It is rarely met in the beginning and in the middle of the word. Mostly this sign is written in  the end of the word.
Transcription
In transcription, accordingly, are used Latin letters a and e. For example, [üze] үстінде (upstairs), [asra] астында (downstairs).
Note: this sign was also used as a distributor for separating two words or distinguishing endings.