They used a system of writing called hieroglyphics. These were a series of symbols that represented words, syllables, or even just sounds. It's important to note that:
* Not every symbol represented a single sound like in an alphabet.
* The meanings of symbols could change depending on context.
While their writing system was complex, it was not based on an alphabet. They had a rich written culture, though, using their system to record history, law, astronomy, and religious practices.