RPR Grammar, Punctuation, and Transcript Formatting

Question 1

In a court transcript, how should a verbatim interjection such as 'uh-huh' be rendered?

Accepted Answer

Exactly as spoken: 'Uh-huh.'

Answer

Court reporters must transcribe verbatim affirmative sounds exactly as spoken unless instructed otherwise.

Question 2

When should a reporter use a colon versus a semicolon in a transcript?

Accepted Answer

A colon introduces a list or elaboration; a semicolon joins related independent clauses

Answer

A colon introduces explanatory or listed material, while a semicolon connects related complete thoughts.

Question 3

How should a proper noun that is a compound title — such as 'Assistant District Attorney' — be capitalized in a transcript?

Accepted Answer

Capitalize all principal words when used as a formal title before a name

Answer

Formal titles are capitalized when they precede a person's name as part of the title.

Question 4

In transcript formatting, what is the standard way to indicate a question was not completed?

Accepted Answer

Use a dash to show an interruption: 'Did you ever see the —'

Answer

An em dash indicates an abrupt interruption or incomplete utterance in transcript formatting.

Question 5

Which sentence is punctuated correctly for a court transcript?

Accepted Answer

Q. Did you see the defendant? A. Yes, I did.

Answer

Standard transcript format uses 'Q.' and 'A.' followed by a space, with a comma after 'Yes' in the answer.

RPR - Registered Professional Reporter Practice Test