CART Steno Theory and Writing Systems

Question 1

What is the primary advantage of machine shorthand (steno) over standard typing for CART providers?

Accepted Answer

It allows sustained writing speeds exceeding 200 words per minute

Answer

It requires significantly less training time

Answer

It uses a standard QWERTY keyboard layout

Answer

It automatically formats transcripts without editing

Question 2

In standard stenographic theory, which section of the steno keyboard represents the initial (onset) consonants of a syllable?

Accepted Answer

The left bank of keys

Answer

The right bank of keys

Answer

The vowel row in the center

Answer

The number bar across the top

Question 3

In stenographic theory, what is a 'conflict' (also called a 'homophone conflict')?

Accepted Answer

When two different words or phrases share the same steno outline

Answer

A disagreement between two CART providers during an assignment

Answer

A technical failure in the CAT software during a session

Answer

When a writer's speed drops below the certified minimum

Question 4

What is a 'brief form' in stenographic writing?

Accepted Answer

An abbreviated steno outline representing a common word or phrase in fewer strokes than normal

Answer

A short summary document delivered to the client after a session

Answer

A certification requirement summary provided by NCRA

Answer

A condensed version of a full transcript

Question 5

In steno theory, when is fingerspelling (stroking individual letters) most commonly used by a CART provider?

Accepted Answer

For proper nouns and unfamiliar words not in the dictionary

Answer

For all punctuation marks and symbols

Answer

Only for numbers and mathematical expressions

Answer

Exclusively for legal and medical terminology

Question 6

What is the purpose of a CART writer's 'personal dictionary' within their CAT software?

Accepted Answer

To add custom outlines and brief forms tailored to specific subject matter, clients, or speaking styles

Answer

To store personal contact information and client billing records

Answer

To list all NCRA-certified CART providers by region

Answer

To store audio backup recordings of CART sessions

Question 7

Which type of shorthand theory is used with a stenotype machine, as opposed to manual shorthand systems?

Accepted Answer

Machine shorthand theory such as Phoenix, StenEd, or Magnum Steno

Answer

Pitman shorthand, which uses line thickness and position

Answer

Gregg shorthand, which uses cursive pen strokes

Answer

Speedwriting, which abbreviates standard alphabetic letters