CSR Stenography Theory & Machine Shorthand Systems 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: At what words-per-minute speed must California CSR candidates pass all three speed examination tests?
- 160 WPM
- 180 WPM
- 200 WPM (Correct answer)
- 225 WPM
Correct answer: 200 WPM
California CSR candidates must pass literary, jury charge, and Q&A speed tests at 200 WPM with at least 95% accuracy.
Question 2: What minimum accuracy rate is typically required to pass the speed tests on the CSR examination?
- 90%
- 92%
- 95% (Correct answer)
- 98%
Correct answer: 95%
CSR speed tests generally require 95% or better accuracy, meaning no more than one error per 20 words at the required speed.
Question 3: What is 'phrasing' in machine shorthand?
- Adding punctuation to a steno outline
- Combining two or more words into a single steno stroke to increase writing speed (Correct answer)
- Separating a compound word across two strokes
- Using the number bar to write dates
Correct answer: Combining two or more words into a single steno stroke to increase writing speed
Phrasing collapses common multi-word sequences (e.g., 'do you know') into a single chord, dramatically increasing a reporter's speed.
Question 4: What does the acronym 'CAT' stand for in court reporting technology?
- Certified Audio Transcription
- Court Automated Technology
- Computer-Aided Transcription (Correct answer)
- Certified Accuracy Testing
Correct answer: Computer-Aided Transcription
CAT (Computer-Aided Transcription) software translates steno outlines into readable English text, either in real time or during post-production.
Question 5: What is 'realtime' court reporting?
- Delivering a final certified transcript within 24 hours
- The simultaneous translation of steno strokes into readable English text displayed on a screen as testimony is given (Correct answer)
- Recording testimony with both audio and steno simultaneously
- Providing a rough draft after each recess
Correct answer: The simultaneous translation of steno strokes into readable English text displayed on a screen as testimony is given
Realtime reporting uses CAT software to instantly display translated text, allowing judges and attorneys to read testimony as it is spoken.
Question 6: What is the primary function of the asterisk (*) key on a steno machine?
- To indicate a speaker change in the transcript
- To delete or correct the immediately preceding steno stroke (Correct answer)
- To activate the number bar for digits
- To mark an exhibit reference
Correct answer: To delete or correct the immediately preceding steno stroke
The asterisk key serves as the steno machine's 'backspace,' allowing a reporter to delete and rewrite the stroke just made.
Question 7: What physical record does a traditional steno machine produce as a reporter writes?
- A printed page of English text
- A paper tape containing steno outlines (Correct answer)
- An audio waveform file
- A digital PDF of the proceedings
Correct answer: A paper tape containing steno outlines
Traditional stenotype machines print steno outlines onto a continuous paper tape that can later be used for transcription.
CSR Stenography Theory & Machine Shorthand Systems 2
At what words-per-minute speed must California CSR candidates pass all three speed examination tests?