CRI Machine Shorthand Theory 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: In machine shorthand, what is a 'conflict' and how is it typically resolved?
- Two different words sharing the same stroke, resolved by using an alternate outline for one (Correct answer)
- A software crash during real-time translation
- A disagreement between the reporter and the witness
- A missing key on the steno keyboard
Correct 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.
Question 2: What role do 'suffix keys' play in machine shorthand theory?
- They are right-bank key combinations added to base strokes to form word endings like -ing, -ed, or -tion (Correct answer)
- They replace vowels in abbreviated outlines
- They are used exclusively for proper nouns
- They signal the beginning of a new sentence
Correct 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.
Question 3: Which of the following is an example of a 'prefix stroke' in machine shorthand?
- A stroke that attaches to the beginning of a base word to modify its meaning, such as 'un-' or 'pre-' (Correct answer)
- A stroke that ends every sentence
- A stroke reserved for numbers above 100
- A stroke that marks foreign language words
Correct 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.
Question 4: In steno theory instruction, why is 'finger independence' stressed during initial training?
- To allow each finger to depress its assigned keys cleanly without inadvertently striking adjacent keys (Correct answer)
- To enable the student to write with either hand alone
- To reduce the total number of strokes needed per word
- To allow simultaneous use of multiple steno machines
Correct 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.
Question 5: What distinguishes 'real-time translation' from 'translation after the fact' in CAT software?
- Real-time translation displays English text on screen instantly as the reporter writes (Correct answer)
- Real-time translation is performed manually by a scopist
- Real-time translation requires no dictionary
- Real-time translation only works for audio recordings
Correct 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.
Question 6: What is the purpose of a 'personal dictionary' in machine shorthand practice?
- A customized database of the reporter's unique steno outlines that the CAT software uses for translation (Correct answer)
- A handwritten glossary of legal terms
- A list of words the reporter cannot write
- A government-mandated word list for reporters
Correct 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.
Question 7: In machine shorthand theory, 'stacking' refers to:
- Writing multiple keys simultaneously in a single stroke to represent a syllable or word (Correct answer)
- Placing one steno machine on top of another
- Organizing notes in vertical columns on the paper tape
- Using multiple software programs simultaneously
Correct 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.
CRI Machine Shorthand Theory 3
In machine shorthand, what is a 'conflict' and how is it typically resolved?