One type of rapid writing, or shorthand, is stenography. It represents words and phrases with symbols. While seasoned stenographers can write up to 280 words per minute, novice stenographers typically take notes at a rate of 120 words per minute. The primary advantage of stenography is that a phrase can be represented by a single symbol. Among stenographers, Gregg Shorthand is the most widely used method. There are several editions of Gregg Shorthand for distinct uses; for professional purposes, the Anniversary and Simplified editions are the most beneficial.
Search online auction sites, yard sales, and used bookstores for the textbooks. The books are no longer in print and have been for over a decade. To begin learning how to interpret the symbols, download the free PDF versions of all the required publications. But the real textbooks are really helpful in teaching proper symbol placement and size, as well as allowing students to trace the symbols as they study.
Set aside two hours each day to practice your stenography skills at home. This would equate to one hour of in-class time and one hour of practice time for a student attending the class at school. Gregg Shorthand may be learned in around ten months if two hours a day are set aside for practice and study.
Use the Fundamental Drills workbook and the Gregg Shorthand textbook to get started on your home study. While the Simplified edition is intended for court reporting, the Anniversary edition works well for normal office dictation. The Anniversary edition workbook and the Fundamental Drills workbook go together.
If you are left-handed, choose which way you will write. Writing from right to left moves the hand away from the body, so the pace is faster. Stick to your format of choice to ensure that your notes are always readable.
If you are having trouble reading some of the shorthand symbols, consult the book 5000 Most Useful Shorthand Forms. The Gregg Shorthand Dictionary has been condensed into this volume. Stenographers will find both to be very helpful references at some point in their careers.
To improve your comprehension of stenography and reading speed, read the Gregg Shorthand Fables. Before you can interpret the majority of the symbols in the Fables, you will need to finish around half of the textbook.
Every day, take notes to help you write more quickly. Opt for a chat show on the radio. While the radio show is being recorded, take notes. Rewind the recording and make a comparison with your notes. You can purchase dictation recordings if you choose not to record radio shows. As these recordings are not easily accessible, try searching for them at yard sales, online auctions, and used bookstores where you might find the textbooks.
