Court fig.

STENO

Stenography is the process of writing in shorthand. The term comes from the Greek “steno” (narrow) and “graphe” (writing). A stenographer might be a court reporter, or a person provided captions accompanying a live television broadcast.

Stenography is the practice or art of writing in shorthand, which is a system of abbreviated symbolic writing used to represent words and phrases. The goal of stenography is to transcribe spoken words quickly and efficiently. Stenographers, also known as court reporters or shorthand writers, use special symbols or characters to record spoken words in a manner that allows for faster writing than regular longhand.

Here are some key points about stenography:

1. Stenotype Machines: Stenographers often use stenotype machines, which are specialized keyboards with fewer keys than a standard keyboard. Each key corresponds to a specific sound or word component.
2. Real-Time Transcription: Stenographers can provide real-time transcription of spoken words, making them valuable in courtrooms, during depositions, and in other settings where an accurate and immediate record is needed.
3. Training and Certification: Becoming proficient in stenography requires specialized training. Stenographers may undergo formal education programs or apprenticeships to learn the specific symbols and techniques used in shorthand.
4. Verbatim Reporting: Stenographers are trained to capture spoken words verbatim, ensuring an accurate record of proceedings. This is crucial in legal settings where an exact record of testimony is necessary.
5. Closed Captioning and Captioning for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing: Stenographers also play a role in providing closed captions for live television broadcasts and events, making content accessible to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Stenography has evolved with the introduction of technology, and stenographers may use computer-aided transcription (CAT) software for more efficient and accurate transcription. Despite advancements in technology, stenography remains a valuable skill in various professional settings.