Learn Shorthand
at Home
In the electronic age, shorthand is not the necessary secretarial skill it once was. However, shorthand is still used by journalists, students, administrative assistants and many others who need to jot down notes, dictation or interviews as quickly as possible. And including "certified shorthand" on your resume can be a good way to set yourself apart in the applicant pool.
Instructions
1. Decide what system of shorthand that you would like to use. The Gregg system of shorthand is the most popular among business people and is one example of symbol-based shorthand. The other types of shorthand are sound-based and alphabetic; many other forms are hybrids of the three main categories.
2. Enroll in an online course that teaches the form of shorthand you would like to learn (see Resources). Look for one that provides detailed lessons, practices audio dictation and provides a certificate of completion.
3. Make a flashcard for each symbol and its corresponding sound. Drill the flashcards a few times a day.
4. Practice writing in your journal in shorthand until you are fairly comfortable using the symbols.
5. Practice taking dictation using the audio clips and exercises provided by your shorthand course and by writing the lyrics to slow songs in shorthand. For extra practice, take dictation from the television.
6. Take your final quizzes or exams.
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