Machine Shorthand Theory Flashcards

In machine shorthand, what is a 'conflict' and how is it typically resolved?

Answer: Two different words sharing the same stroke, resolved by using an alternate outline for one

Conflicts occur when two words produce identical strokes; the writer designates one outline for the more common word and creates an alternate for the other.

What role do 'suffix keys' play in machine shorthand theory?

Answer: They are right-bank key combinations added to base strokes to form word endings like -ing, -ed, or -tion

Suffix keys allow writers to efficiently add common grammatical endings to root word strokes in a single additional key or stroke.

Which of the following is an example of a 'prefix stroke' in machine shorthand?

Answer: A stroke that attaches to the beginning of a base word to modify its meaning, such as 'un-' or 'pre-'

Prefix strokes precede base word strokes and represent common word beginnings, increasing writing efficiency.

In steno theory instruction, why is 'finger independence' stressed during initial training?

Answer: To allow each finger to depress its assigned keys cleanly without inadvertently striking adjacent keys

Finger independence prevents 'shadow' or unintended key strikes that create incorrect outlines and translation errors.

What distinguishes 'real-time translation' from 'translation after the fact' in CAT software?

Answer: Real-time translation displays English text on screen instantly as the reporter writes

Real-time translation uses the CAT software's dictionary to convert steno strokes to English text simultaneously as strokes are made.

What is the purpose of a 'personal dictionary' in machine shorthand practice?

Answer: A customized database of the reporter's unique steno outlines that the CAT software uses for translation

Personal dictionaries store writer-specific outlines and entries, ensuring consistent and accurate translation across all jobs.

In machine shorthand theory, 'stacking' refers to:

Answer: Writing multiple keys simultaneously in a single stroke to represent a syllable or word

Stacking is the simultaneous depression of multiple keys to produce a complete syllable or word outline in one stroke.