Speed Building Tips for Court Reporters
\nLet’s face it. Becoming a court reporter is hard work. Court reporters have a huge responsibility of providing accurate record of legal proceedings or provide captioning or CART services to those who are deaf or hard of hearing. The profession is constantly changing as new technologies and techniques make it possible to achieve even greater speeds than anyone ever thought possible. But the responsibility and the challenge is what makes this profession so exciting and rewarding. To say that it’s easy would undermine the incredible sense of accomplishment court reporters feel every day.\n\nThe purpose of this blog is to provide students with some tricks of the trade to help them complete their training and go on to become successful in their chosen careers. Every steno writer has their method of choice for getting to that next level of speed and accuracy, below are some tips to help get you there.\n
Practice Makes Perfect
\nIt’s an oldie but a goodie – practice, practice and then practice some more. Most teachers recommend dedicating at least three hours a day to practicing speed and briefs. Set goals of 20 wpm faster than the next level you’re trying to achieve and keep track of your times and accomplishments. It’s helpful to look back and see how far you’ve come. Try not to get discouraged when you don’t feel like you’re progressing at the speed you wish you were. You’ll be amazed how far your desire to succeed, dedication to your craft and a positive attitude will take.\n
Ask for Advice
\nEvery court reporter has achieved success in different ways, and almost all of them are happy to share their experiences with you. There is a camaraderie within this profession because every court reporter has been through what you’re going through right now. Don’t be afraid to reach out to the court reporting firms in your area. Often times, they will invite you to spend a few hours shadowing someone. There is so much insight you can glean simply by watching a professional in his or her element. The NCRA also offers a Virtual Mentors Program, which is a wonderful resource for those just starting off their careers.\n
Stay “Up to Speed” on the Latest Technology
\nOne of the most important aspects of court reporting is staying abreast on the latest tools and technologies that help you stay ahead of the competition. Today’s court reporting necessities reach far beyond a steno writer and paper. A professional court reporter needs a professional steno machine, CAT Software, a laptop or notebook computer, Wi-Fi – and that’s just the basic necessities. What you’ll want to excel in this career is a Real Time Reporter (RTR) Certification, prep pamphlets for Writing Knowledge Test, CaseViewNet for real time reporting and a variety of other tools to make you the best reporter you can be. The experts at UsedWriters.com can help you determine what equipment is necessary to be successful in your career of choice.\n\nThe biggest piece of advice I can give is to stick with it. It will get difficult, it will be frustrating, you will get overwhelmed to the point where it seems utterly impossible. This is not the point to give up – this is the point where you’re almost there! You have what it takes. You’re going to make a great court reporter!\n
Used Professional Steno Machines 1-800-323-4247
\nWhen considering investing in a court reporting machine, be sure to select a model (professional court reporting shorthand machine or student court reporting shorthand machine), which meets your particular needs. Also, go with a reputable manufacturer who stands behind their product and has been producing court reporting machines for many years.\n
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