Shorthand Dictation and Transcription
This practical domain tests sustained dictation, note-reading, and accurate transcription with correct spelling, punctuation, and layout.
During dictation
- Keep the pen moving with the reader's rhythm; do not stop to perfect a doubtful outline.
- Use phraseograms and grammalogues for speed; leave a small gap for an uncertain word and continue.
- Mark paragraph breaks and punctuation consistently in the margin or by an agreed sign.
During transcription
- Read the whole passage first to establish sense; shorthand records sound, so context resolves homophones.
- Expand short forms from grammar and meaning, not guesswork.
- Type or write in the prescribed spacing, then proofread against the notes.
Worked example
Dictated: The principal presented the principle of the policy. Both words may produce similar outlines. In transcription, principal is the person and principle is the rule. Reasoning: the first needs a human subject who presented; the second is followed by of the policy. Context and part of speech decide the spelling.
Traps
- Transcribing stationary/stationery, council/counsel, or cite/site by sound alone.
- Omitting punctuation or paragraphing.
- Changing the dictated tense or number.
- Leaving a blank and forgetting to fill it.
Key points are listed in the key_points field.