Information About Shorthand Machines

\nSimply put, a shorthand machine allows users to type at much greater speeds than would be possible while using a normal keyboard with the famous QWERTY display, which has been around for nearly 150 years. This is because this type of writing machine consists of just 22 keys, and stenographers essentially type phonetically instead of letter by letter. One of the fingers on the left hand hits the first consonant of the syllable, while the right hand takes care of the final consonant. The thumbs handle the vowels. Numbers can either be typed phonetically like other words or with the use of the number bar, which is similar to a shift key on a QWERTY keyboard, combined with one of the keys that is normally used to type a letter.\n\nShorthand machines are used for a variety of purposes. One of the primary uses is to transcribe court and deposition proceedings. A very visible use, especially for those who may be deaf or hard of hearing and enjoy watching television shows or movies, is to create closed captions for these programs. Since people naturally talk at a much quicker pace than is possible to record verbatim in written form or by using a normal computer, many utilize this machine to type what is being said in real time. Stenographers usually require multiple years of training before they can type at the required pace of about 200 words per minute. That is roughly double the speed that fast typists using QWERTY keyboards can maintain.\n\nThis product is useful to a variety of people. Those who are already trained as a stenographer might need a new or additional shorthand machine. Individuals who are in the process of being trained might need to purchase one for practice. A great way that trainees can practice would be to simply turn the television on and act as if they are creating the closed captions for whatever program is being telecast at that time. Sports events can be especially challenging as it is important to make sure that the text goes out to the viewers while what was being talked about is still relevant. Sometimes things being said during sports broadcasts are left out for this reason, especially if they simply repeat something that viewers already knew from watching the game. An example would be an announcer describing which team has possession of the ball.\n\nWhen considering investing in a shorthand machine, be sure to select a model (professional shorthand machine or student shorthand machine), which meets your particular needs. Also, go with a reputable manufacturer who stands behind their product and has been producing shorthand machines for many years.