RPR Grammar, Punctuation, and Transcript Formatting 2

Question 1

How should numbers below 10 be written in a verbatim legal transcript?

Accepted Answer

Spell them out: one, two, three

Answer

Standard transcript style spells out numbers below 10, consistent with legal and editorial guidelines.

Question 2

In a deposition transcript, how is an 'off the record' remark typically indicated?

Accepted Answer

With a notation such as '(Off the record.)' or '(Discussion off the record.)'

Answer

An off-the-record notation in parentheses preserves the transparency of the transcript without recording the actual content.

Question 3

Which is the correct way to transcribe a dollar amount stated as 'four hundred and fifty thousand dollars'?

Accepted Answer

$450,000

Answer

Legal transcripts and standard style use numerical format with dollar signs for monetary amounts.

Question 4

How should a reporter handle a word they could not hear during testimony?

Accepted Answer

Insert a phonetic spelling in parentheses or mark as [inaudible]

Answer

Inaudible or unclear words should be marked with a notation such as [inaudible] to preserve accuracy.

Question 5

Which punctuation is correct when a speaker trails off mid-thought in testimony?

Accepted Answer

Ellipsis: 'I thought that maybe ...'

Answer

An ellipsis indicates a trailing off or pause, while a dash indicates an abrupt interruption.

RPR - Registered Professional Reporter Practice Test