CRI Machine Shorthand Theory 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the significance of the number bar in machine shorthand?
- It is pressed in combination with top-row keys to produce numeric output (Correct answer)
- It shifts all keys to uppercase letters
- It is used exclusively for writing dates
- It locks the machine in numeric mode permanently
Correct answer: It is pressed in combination with top-row keys to produce numeric output
The number bar, when pressed simultaneously with specific keys, converts those key strokes into their corresponding numbers.
Question 2: Which theory principle explains why 'KW' is commonly used for the 'QU' sound in steno?
- Phonetic equivalence — 'QU' sounds like 'KW', so the closest phonetic keys are used (Correct answer)
- Alphabetic mapping — Q and W are adjacent on QWERTY keyboards
- A software shortcut built into all CAT programs
- An arbitrary convention with no phonetic basis
Correct answer: Phonetic equivalence — 'QU' sounds like 'KW', so the closest phonetic keys are used
Steno theory maps sounds phonetically, so 'QU' (pronounced 'KW') is written with the K and W keys.
Question 3: In machine shorthand instruction, what does 'drill for automaticity' mean?
- Repeated practice of specific outlines until writing them requires no conscious thought (Correct answer)
- Running automated tests on CAT software
- Using a metronome to set writing speed
- Copying from a printed steno drill book
Correct answer: Repeated practice of specific outlines until writing them requires no conscious thought
Automaticity drills build muscle memory so outlines are produced reflexively, freeing the writer's attention for listening.
Question 4: What is a 'stroke economy' violation in steno theory?
- Using more strokes than necessary to write a word when a shorter, equally accurate outline exists (Correct answer)
- Writing strokes too slowly during a deposition
- Using a steno machine with more keys than standard
- Failing to use the number bar for digits
Correct answer: Using more strokes than necessary to write a word when a shorter, equally accurate outline exists
Stroke economy violations occur when a writer ignores available brief forms or phrases, causing unnecessary additional strokes.
Question 5: How does 'vowel omission' function in machine shorthand theory?
- Certain theories allow omitting vowels in predictable positions to create shorter outlines without ambiguity (Correct answer)
- All vowels are always omitted in steno writing
- Vowels are omitted only for numbers
- Vowel omission applies only to proper nouns
Correct answer: Certain theories allow omitting vowels in predictable positions to create shorter outlines without ambiguity
In many steno theories, vowels in unstressed or predictable positions can be dropped because context and consonant patterns make the word unambiguous.
Question 6: What does 'stroke blending' mean when teaching machine shorthand theory?
- The smooth, seamless transition from one stroke to the next to maintain writing rhythm and accuracy (Correct answer)
- Combining two separate steno theories into one system
- Mixing manual and machine shorthand on the same transcript
- Using multiple fingers on a single key
Correct answer: The smooth, seamless transition from one stroke to the next to maintain writing rhythm and accuracy
Stroke blending refers to the fluid physical motion between consecutive strokes, which prevents hesitation and maintains speed.
Question 7: In the context of CRI exam preparation, why must instructor candidates understand multiple steno theories?
- To teach students effectively regardless of which theory the student's program uses (Correct answer)
- Because the CRI exam requires writing in three different theories simultaneously
- Because all theories are identical in outline construction
- To qualify for additional certifications automatically
Correct answer: To teach students effectively regardless of which theory the student's program uses
CRI candidates must be able to instruct across various theory systems because different schools and programs use different theory textbooks.
CRI Machine Shorthand Theory 4
What is the significance of the number bar in machine shorthand?