RMR Registered Merit Reporter cheat sheet

Computer-aided transcription converts stenotype keystrokes into text through a dictionary; untranslated strokes remain raw until the reporter defines or edits them.

A conflict occurs when one stenographic stroke maps to multiple dictionary entries; resolve it by choosing the intended entry or revising the dictionary.

Real-time output depends on writer speed, dictionary depth, conflict rate, computer performance, and network bandwidth.

Backup audio should be synchronized with the stenographic record so unclear passages can be checked against both sources.

Job dictionaries contain case-specific names, acronyms, and expert terms; they supplement, but do not replace, the main dictionary.

Speaker labels must remain consistent throughout a transcript; any change in label should be traceable in the editing log.

Plain-text formats preserve characters but not layout; PDF preserves visual layout; RTF preserves editable formatting.

A draft transcript is not final until proofreading resolves untranslates, punctuation, speaker attribution, and page or line numbering.

Subject-verb agreement is determined by the subject, not by nouns in intervening prepositional phrases or parentheticals.

Use who for subjects and whom for objects; substitute he or him as a test.

A restrictive clause is essential and not comma-set; a nonrestrictive clause is nonessential and comma-set.

A semicolon joins independent clauses without a conjunction or separates series items that contain internal commas.

A colon follows a complete clause and introduces a list, explanation, or quotation; it does not separate a verb from its object.

Singular possessive nouns add apostrophe-s; plural possessives ending in s add only an apostrophe; its is possessive, it's is a contraction.

In American style, periods and commas go inside closing quotation marks; semicolons and colons go outside.

Affect is usually a verb meaning influence; effect is usually a noun meaning result.

An em dash marks an abrupt break or aside; an en dash marks ranges; a hyphen joins compound modifiers.

A civil action begins with a complaint or petition; the defendant responds with an answer, which may include counterclaims.

Discovery methods include interrogatories, requests for production, requests for admission, and depositions.

A deposition is sworn out-of-court testimony recorded by a court reporter and usable for discovery or impeachment.

A subpoena ad testificandum commands testimony; a subpoena duces tecum commands production of documents or evidence.

Sustained means the objection is granted and the evidence or question is disallowed; overruled means it is denied.

A motion in limine seeks a pretrial ruling on admissibility of evidence, often outside the jury's presence.

Voir dire can refer to jury selection or preliminary examination of a witness's qualifications; context determines meaning.

Pro se means self-represented; in forma pauperis means permission to proceed without prepayment of fees.

A stipulation is an agreement by parties on a fact or procedure; allocution is the defendant's statement before sentencing.

A court reporter is an impartial officer of the court; the record must not be altered to favor any party.

Confidential case information should be disclosed only to authorized persons or as required by law or court order.

A conflict of interest exists when a relationship or financial interest could compromise impartiality; disclose and avoid it.

Compensation tied to case outcome or testimony content is generally improper because it threatens independence.

Transcript corrections should be made through documented errata or court order, not silent changes to the official record.

Retain stenographic notes, audio, and transcripts for the period required by statute, court rule, or contract.

Accept assignments only when competent to produce an accurate record; arrange a qualified substitute if unable.

Advertising must be truthful and must not exaggerate qualifications, speed, or accuracy.

Fee terms, delivery deadlines, and additional charges are stated in the engagement agreement before work begins.