RMR Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield RMR facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is a 'plea bargain'? → Guilty plea to lesser charge
2. Which court reporting certification is most recognized? → Registered Merit Reporter (RMR)
3. How do court reporters ensure transcript accuracy? → Reviewing and clarifying
4. Which technology assists court reporters in editing transcripts? → CAT software
5. What is a 'brief' in stenographic writing? → A shortened stroke sequence assigned to a frequently used word or phrase to increase speed
6. What is a 'speaking objection' in a deposition, and why is it disfavored under FRCP 30(c)(2)? → A lengthy objection that coaches the witness on how to answer
7. Under FRCP 30(b)(4), a deposition may be taken by remote means such as telephone or video conference under what condition? → All parties agree or the court orders it
8. What is the definition of 'subpoena'? → A court order to appear or produce evidence
9. What should a court reporter do if asked to alter a transcript improperly? → Refuse and report the request
10. What is the role of the realtime feed in court reporting? → Provides instant transcript access
11. How do court reporters ensure transcript accuracy? → By reviewing and clarifying
12. Who is authorized to administer the oath to a deponent at a deposition under FRCP 28(a)? → A court reporter who is a notary public or other officer authorized to administer oaths
13. What is the minimum speed requirement for the RMR certification skills test? → 200 words per minute for literary material and 225 wpm for jury charge
14. What is the primary purpose of the 'read and sign' procedure in deposition practice under FRCP 30(e)? → To allow the deponent to review and correct any errors in the transcript
15. Why is confidentiality important for court reporters? → Protecting sensitive information
16. Why is professionalism critical in court reporting? → Maintains trust and accuracy
17. Why is confidentiality important in transcript production? → Protects sensitive information
18. What is a subpoena duces tecum used for in the context of a deposition? → To compel a witness to produce documents or tangible items at the deposition
19. What is a 'motion in limine' and when does it occur? → A pretrial motion to exclude certain evidence or testimony before the jury hears it
20. What is an 'errata sheet' in deposition practice? → A document signed by the deponent listing changes to the transcript after review
21. What is 'cross-examination'? → Questioning by opposing party
22. What is the importance of timestamping in transcripts? → Helps locate specific points
23. What is an errata sheet? → A list of transcript corrections
24. What does CAT stand for in court reporting? → Computer-Aided Transcription
25. Which of the following best describes a 'deposition de bene esse'? → A deposition taken to preserve testimony of a witness who may be unavailable at trial
26. What does 'sequestration of witnesses' mean in the context of a deposition proceeding? → Excluding witnesses from the deposition room while other witnesses are testifying
27. What additional requirement does FRCP 30(b)(3) impose when a party intends to record a deposition by audiovisual means? → The deposition notice must state that the deposition will be recorded by audiovisual means
28. How should court reporters handle requests for confidential information? → Follow legal guidelines and share appropriately
29. Why is formatting important in transcript production? → Ensures readability and legal compliance
30. What is the primary role of a court reporter? → To create accurate transcripts