a transparent typewriter bail is described having a transparent bar and end support elements which seat on a typewriter platen and preserve the integrity of the shape of the transparent bar when it is installed in a typewriter . the end support elements may be in the form of rollers or adjustable elements with which one may vary the spacing between the platen and the transparent bar for optimum performance . bowing and permanent set distortions of plastic transparent bars are effectively prevented to provide a transparent typewriter bail through which typed text can be read .